Beech 65-B80 N44MA accident near Woleai Atoll, FM

Probable cause

The pilot's selection of an unsuitable takeoff area, resulting in a loss of directional control. Contributing to the accident was a flooded runway.

NTSB analysis

The pilot reported that, during a short field takeoff on a runway that was flooded by heavy rain, the airplane’s right landing gear wheel went into a deep puddle of water and the airplane veered right. The pilot attempted to lift the airplane into ground effect to regain directional control, but the airplane was traveling too slow. The airplane exited the right side of the runway into tall grass and vegetation. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the wing spar and fuselage. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ANC24LA065 for the full record.