McCollum Aviation

MBB HFB-320 Hansa Jet

The Hansa Jet HFB-320 aircraft crashed on takeoff from the Aberdeen Airport after the flight crew selected the incorrect runway for takeoff. The aircraft was observed running off the end of runway 17, which is 3,860 feet long, where it struck a fence, ditch, road and another ditch then became airborne, the landing gear separated during the above sequence. The aircraft was than observed to level off momentarily, then descend in a right turn until impact. Investigation revealed the crew had been flying 12 hours except for refueling stops and cargo loading. In addition, calculations revealed the aircraft was over gross weight by approx 1 ton. The proper runway for takeoff was 13 (40° chance) and 6,900 feet long. Runway used was restricted to aircraft less than 12,500 gto weight. N127MW weighed over 20,000 lbs. All three occupants were killed.

Lockheed 18 LodeStar

During the takeoff roll, the crew decided to abandon the takeoff procedure. Unable to stop within the remaining distance, the twin engine airplane overran, struck trees and crashed in flames. Both occupants were seriously injured and the aircraft was destroyed by fire. A load of 2,000 lbs of marijuana was found on board.