Accidents
NTSB Cites Cable Misrouting in Beechcraft 400A Crash
Two occupants suffered minor injuries in runway overrun and gear collapse
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© NTSB

An improperly routed elevator control cable led to a loss of elevator control that caused a Beech 400A to crash during an attempted takeoff at Arkansas’ Bentonville Municipal Airport/Louise M. Thaden Field (KVBT), according to a recently release NTSB final report. Seven of the nine occupants were uninjured, while two sustained minor injuries.

The accident occurred on Feb. 14, 2024, when the Beechcraft (N660BA), operated under Part 91 by PDII LLC, was departing KVBT for a flight to Concord–Padgett Regional Airport (KJQF) in North Carolina. The pilot told investigators that the aircraft lifted off normally before the nose pitched down abruptly. The pilot attempted to apply back pressure, but said he felt a “snap” and no longer had control of the elevator.