Accident Details
Probable Cause and Findings
The pilots improper decision not to land straight ahead after sustaining a reported loss of engine power on initial take off climb with sufficient runway remaining, and improper recovery from a bounced landing resulting in a subsequent in-flight collision with terrain. The reported loss of engine power was not determined.
Aircraft Information
Registered Owner (Historical)
Analysis
On March 28, 1999, about 1006 eastern standard time, a Beech A23, N8883M, registered to Mathis Paint and Body, operating as a 14 CFR Part 91 personal flight, crashed on initial climbout from Homestead General Aviation Airport, Homestead, Florida. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed and no flight plan was filed. The airplane sustained substantial damage. The private pilot and one passenger reported no injuries. The flight was originating at the time of the accident.
The pilot stated he departed from runway 09. "At approximately 60 feet above the field the engine loss power and vibrated extremely....I then made a poor judgement call and turned the plane into a 45 degree angle. After the rollout I saw a clearing and headed for it." The right main landing gear touched down, the airplane bounced to the left striking the wing tip and landing left landing gear, before the airplane skidded to a stop.
The FAA stated, "the overall condition of the engine appeared to be poor. Many spark plugs were badly rusted, hoses, wiring, and accessories appeared to be old and in need of inspection." The airplane was examined by an airframe and powerplant mechanic. The propeller was pulled through and compression was present. The crankshaft and propeller moved freely.
Data Source
Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# MIA99LA115