Lancaster, Pennsylvania Plane Crashes After Reporting Open Door - 5 on board
On Sunday, March 9, 2025, a Beechcraft A36TC Bonanza aircraft crashed shortly after takeoff from Lancaster Airport in Pennsylvania. The aircraft, registered as N347M and manufactured in 1981, was destroyed in the accident. All five occupants sustained injuries but survived the crash.
N347M Incident Overview
At approximately 3:17 p.m. local time, the aircraft departed from Lancaster Airport (LNS/KLNS) en route to Springfield Airport (SGH/KSGH) in Ohio. Shortly after takeoff from runway 26, the pilot reported an open door and requested to return for landing. Despite clearance from air traffic control, the aircraft impacted terrain, crashing near a parking lot at the Brethren Village Retirement Community. Emergency services responded swiftly, extinguishing the fire and transporting all five occupants to nearby hospitals. No fatalities were reported, and no ground injuries occurred.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are leading the investigation to determine the exact cause of the crash. Preliminary reports indicate that the open door may have contributed to the accident.
Aircraft Details
The Beechcraft A36TC Bonanza is a popular model known for its reliability and performance. This particular aircraft underwent a Soloy/Tradewind Turbines propjet conversion.
- Type: Beechcraft A36TC Bonanza (Soloy/Tradewind Turbines propjet conversion)
- Registration: N347M
- Manufacturer Serial Number (MSN): EA-253
- Year of Manufacture: 1981
- Maximum Takeoff Weight: 3,663 lbs
- Cruising Speed: 200 mph
- Phase of Flight: Initial climb
- Aircraft Damage: Destroyed
While the Bonanza is known for its solid design and versatility, its modified status and maintenance history will be key factors in the ongoing investigation.
Were You or Someone You Know Affected
N347M Key Factors in the Crash
Door Distraction During Takeoff
- ATC audio reveals the pilot reported an open door shortly after takeoff.
- The pilot decided to return but struggled with communication due to wind noise.
- ADS-B data shows the aircraft at 500 feet altitude and a low ground speed of 67 knots.
Loss of Control & Crash
- ATC was informed the aircraft had crashed behind the terminal.
- Analysis suggests the pilot may have stalled while trying to manage the door issue.
Common Issue in Beecraft Bonanza Series
- Many Bonanza aircraft have experienced door latch failures, particularly the right front boarding door.
- Investigators will likely examine the door mechanism to confirm the issue.
- The American Bonanza Society trains pilots on handling door openings mid-flight.
Ongoing Investigation
The NTSB and FAA are investigating several aspects to determine the cause of the accident:
- Pilot’s Background
- Reviewing the pilot’s flight history, training, and certification records.
- Evaluating the pilot’s health and medical status prior to the flight.
- Analyzing recent flight activity and experience with the Bonanza aircraft.
- Aircraft Condition
- Inspecting maintenance records and any recent modifications.
- Examining structural integrity and engine functionality post-crash.
- Assessing whether mechanical failures contributed to the crash.
- Environmental and External Factors
- Reviewing weather conditions at the time of the accident.
- Evaluating if wind, turbulence, or visibility issues played a role.
- Investigating air traffic conditions and potential mid-air conflicts.
Authorities have requested that any witnesses or individuals with relevant information contact the NTSB at witness@ntsb.gov. Investigators will also analyze flight tracking data, surveillance footage, and eyewitness accounts to reconstruct the aircraft’s final moments.
Community Impact and Safety Considerations
The crash deeply impacted the local community, particularly residents near the accident site. While the survival of all occupants is a positive outcome, the incident underscores the need for stringent safety measures and ongoing awareness.
Key considerations for preventing similar incidents include:
- Thorough Pre-Flight Inspections: Ensuring all aircraft systems are fully functional before departure.
- Emergency Procedure Training: Reinforcing safety protocols for pilots and crew.
- Monitoring Aircraft Modifications: Ensuring that all modifications adhere to FAA safety standards.
- Prompt Reporting of Issues: Addressing in-flight complications, such as open doors, swiftly and effectively.
Final Thoughts
As investigations continue, further details will provide clarity on the crash’s cause and offer valuable insights for aviation safety improvements. The involvement of the FAA and NTSB ensures that thorough assessments will be made, helping to prevent future incidents.
For ongoing updates, refer to official NTSB reports and aviation safety bulletins.
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Aircraft crash after takeoff from Lancaster Airport in Pennsylvania. Beech A36TC Bonanza N347M. Reached about 600 feet before crashing into a residential area, about halfway between Philadelphia and Harrisburg PA. Flight profile from FlightRadar24. @BCNewsAddict @steffanwatkins… pic.twitter.com/KnVoZwUkQH
— Peter Vogel (@PeterVogel) March 9, 2025
Experts in Aviation Law
- Pilot Certificate Defense
- FAA Medical Denial
- Aircraft Crashes
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