NTSB: Improper Loading Caused Challenger Jet Crash
In a final report adopted October 31, 2006, the National Transportation Safety Board determined the probable cause of a corporate jet accident, was the flight crew's failure to ensure the airplane was loaded within weight and balance limits and their attempt to take off with the center of gravity well forward of the forward takeoff limit, which prevented the airplane from rotating at the intended rotation speed. The investigation revealed that neither pilot used the available weight and balance information appropriately to determine the airplane's weight and balance characteristics for the take off.
"This accident clearly shows what can happen when crucial operating steps are not adhered to," said NTSB Chairman Mark Rosenker. "When it comes to transportation safety there are no shortcuts and it is important that operators and flight crews ensure that proper procedures are followed at all times."
On February 2, 2005, a Bombardier Challenger CL-600-1A11, during takeoff, ran off the departure end of runway 6 at Teterboro Airport, Teterboro, New Jersey; through an airport perimeter fence; across a six-lane highway (where it struck a vehicle); and into a parking lot before impacting a building. The two pilots were seriously injured, as were two occupants in the vehicle. The cabin aide, eight passengers, and one person in the building received minor injuries.
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