Crash of a Beechcraft C-45G Expeditor in Bordelonville: 5 killed

Date & Time: Dec 19, 1978 at 1045 LT
Type of aircraft:
Registration:
N37JR
Flight Phase:
Flight Type:
Survivors:
Yes
Schedule:
Bordelonville - Bordelonville
MSN:
AF-13
YOM:
1952
Crew on board:
1
Crew fatalities:
Pax on board:
5
Pax fatalities:
Other fatalities:
Total fatalities:
5
Captain / Total flying hours:
10000
Captain / Total hours on type:
400.00
Circumstances:
The twin engine airplane departed a soft runway at Bordelonville-Brumfield Airstrip. After liftoff, it encountered difficulties to gain height, struck trees and crashed on a farm building. A passenger was seriously injured while five other occupants were killed.
Probable cause:
Collision with trees during initial climb after the pilot misjudged distance, speed and altitude. The following contributing factors were reported:
- Airport conditions: soft runway,
- High obstructions.
Final Report: