BEECH A36 near Pago Pago — 2014-07-22

Probable cause

A loss of airplane control during the initial climb in gusting wind conditions for reasons that could not be determined because the wreckage was not recovered from the ocean.

NTSB narrative

The transoceanic flight was one leg of a planned trip for the two private pilots to fly around the world in 30 days. Before departure, a ground crewman observed the pilots complete preflight checks. The ground crewman stated that he told the pilots that the wind had been gusting and strong all day and evening but that the pilots indicated to him that the weather was good for takeoff. The ground crewman then observed the engine start-up and noted that it was unremarkable and that the engine rpm began to increase. He observed the airplane taxi for departure, lift off, and then turn right at the end of the runway. He estimated that the airplane only climbed to about 90 ft before it suddenly nosed down into the ocean. The ground crewman's wife noted that, as the airplane moved down the runway, the wind was very strong. She noted that, although the airplane became airborne, it was moving up and down and side to side and not gaining altitude. Another witness who was a couple of miles from the accident site also observed that the airplane did not gain much altitude before it went straight down into the water. The wreckage was not recovered. The investigation could not determine if there were any mechanical issues during the initial takeoff that would have resulted in the loss of airplane control.

Analysis

Primary failure mode

Loss of control

First missed decision gate

Pilot could have delayed departure due to strong winds and low experience.

NTSB coding

• Loss of control in flight · Initial climb
• Loss of Control on Takeoff/Initial Climb

Evidence available

• Photos
• 13 docket documents

Docket documents13

• Handler Statement ref Pingsinterview
• Marine Patrol Statementsinterview
• Statement of Fuelinginterview
• Statement of Party Representatives to NTSB Investigationinterview
• Witness Statementsinterview
• Annual Inspection Invoiceother
• Compton Emails with Father ref Flight Planningother
• Fuel Invoiceother
• N20TC Weight and Balanceother
• Pilot Haris Certificateother
• Rocket Route Flight Planother
• FAA Photos of Wreckagephotos
• Police Photos of Wreckagephotos

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