Friday, January 18, 2019

Beechcraft C35 Bonanza, N2025D: Fatal accident occurred January 14, 2016 in Meeker, Rio Blanco County, Colorado

William Ray Hiler 
January 3, 1954 ~ January 14, 2016 (age 62)

The National Transportation Safety Board traveled to the scene of this accident.

Aviation Accident Final Report - National Transportation Safety Board: https://app.ntsb.gov/pdf

Investigation Docket - National Transportation Safety Board: https://dms.ntsb.gov/pubdms

http://registry.faa.govN2025D


Location: Meeker, CO
Accident Number: CEN16FA086
Date & Time: 01/14/2016, 0045 UTC
Registration: N2025D
Aircraft: BEECH C35
Aircraft Damage: Destroyed
Defining Event: Loss of control in flight
Injuries: 1 Fatal
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General Aviation - Personal 

Analysis 

The noninstrument-rated private pilot was conducting a night cross-country flight in the piston-engine-powered, unpressurized airplane. According to the radar track data and ATC transcript, the pilot flew between about 14,000 ft and 18,000 ft for about the last 40 minutes of the flight. Review of weather information indicated that the airplane was likely operating in instrument meteorological conditions for most of the flight, with icing possible below 14,000 ft. About 10 minutes before the accident, the air traffic controller observed the airplane had climbed through 18,000 ft. The air traffic controller subsequently informed the pilot that he would require an instrument flight rules (IFR) clearance to fly at that altitude and asked the pilot if he wanted to file IFR. The pilot responded, "that would be great, I just want to get over [this] so I can get back down." The controller also asked the pilot if the airplane was IFR-equipped and -capable, to which the pilot responded that he was IFR-equipped.

During subsequent communications with air traffic control, the pilot's communications became inconsistent and the airplane began flying erratically with changes in direction and altitude during the final minutes of flight. The airplane entered a series of descending turns before experiencing an in-flight break-up. Examination of the wreckage revealed no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or anomalies that would have precluded normal operation. Although the airplane was equipped with a home-built system of medical-grade oxygen onboard, the valves on the bottles were found in the off positions; since the valves were inaccessible from the cockpit, was not possible for the pilot to have used oxygen during the flight.

As altitude increases, the partial pressure of oxygen in the air decreases, leading to hypoxia. The FAA Aeronautical Information Manual (AIM) notes that hypoxia is a "state of oxygen deficiency in the body sufficient to impair functions of the brain," and "the effects of hypoxia are usually quite difficult to recognize, especially when they occur gradually." The AIM also states that between 12,000 and 15,000 ft "judgment, memory, alertness, coordination and ability to make calculations are impaired, and headache, drowsiness, dizziness and either a sense of well-being (euphoria) or belligerence occur." It also states "pilot performance can seriously deteriorate within 15 minutes at 15,000 ft. FAA regulations (14 CFR 91.211) require a pilot to use supplemental oxygen when operating above 12,500 ft in excess of 30 minutes and during the entire flight time when operating above FL140. The pilot's inconsistent communications and erratic flight track was characteristic of a state of hypoxia, and hypoxia likely resulted in the pilot's inability to maintain control of the airplane.

Toxicological testing of the pilot revealed the presence of multiple central nervous depressants and a total of 6 psychoactive substances in his system (diazepam, nordiazepam, hydrocodone, dihydrocodeine, norcyclobenzaprine, and zolpidem). While there is no direct conversion between the liver and kidney levels and blood or serum levels of these drugs, the presences of even lesser amounts of all 6 substances in combination strongly suggests the pilot was influenced by the effects of the multiple medications he was using. It is likely that the combined effects of the 6 impairing substances he was using contributed to his unsafe decision making, which led to him to initiate the flight in the dark, over mountainous terrain, in instrument meteorological conditions, and without ensuring ready access to his oxygen system.

Probable Cause and Findings

The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident to be:
The non-instrument-rated pilot's decision to fly the airplane in instrument meteorological conditions at high altitude for greater than 30 minutes without the use of supplemental oxygen which resulted in hypoxia, and a subsequent loss of control. Contributing to the accident was the pilot's use of multiple impairing medications.

Findings

Personnel issues
Hypoxia/anoxia - Pilot (Cause)
Decision making/judgment - Pilot (Cause)
Aircraft control - Pilot (Cause)
Prescription medication - Pilot (Factor)
Total instrument experience - Pilot

Environmental issues
Conditions/weather/phenomena - Decision related to condition (Cause)

HISTORY OF FLIGHT

On January 14, 2016 about 1745 mountain standard time (MST), a Beech C-35 single-engine airplane, N2025D, was destroyed when it impacted terrain near Meeker, Colorado. The private pilot was fatally injured. The airplane was privately owned and operated by the pilot under the provisions of Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91. Instrument meteorological conditions prevailed, and no flight plan was filed for the personal flight, which departed Provo Municipal Airport (PVU), Provo, Utah, about 1620, with an intended destination of Granby-Grand County Airport (GNB), Granby, Colorado.

Radar data indicated that, after departure, the airplane circled and climbed to an altitude about 12,000 ft mean sea level (msl) in the general area of PVU before turning east toward mountainous terrain. [Note: All radar and/or air traffic control data is reference in ft msl in this report.] The airplane continued to climb as it traveled east, reaching about 14,500 ft about 1641. The airplane maintained between about 14,000 ft and 14,500 ft until about 1653, when it descended to just below 13,000 ft. The pilot contacted air traffic control at 1704, traveling east-southeast, and was issued the current altimeter setting. The airplane continued in the same direction after initial check-in and began a climb again, the airplane had climbed above 18,000 ft by about 1736. At 1736, the controller confirmed the airplane's altitude, advised the pilot he would require an instrument flight rules (IFR) clearance to fly above 18,000 ft, and asked the pilot if he wanted to file IFR. The pilot responded, "that would be great, I just want to get over (unintelligible) so I can get back down." The controller then asked if the airplane was IFR -equipped and -capable, to which the pilot responded that he was IFR-equipped. The controller subsequently cleared the flight direct to GNB and issued a block altitude between 17,000 ft and 19,000 ft.

Just after the pilot received the block altitude, the accident airplane stopped climbing about 18,400 ft; the controller subsequently asked the pilot if he could maintain 19,000 ft. The pilot responded that he was in the clouds, and the controller again asked if he could maintain 19,000 ft; the pilot responded, "we're getting there." The controller then instructed the pilot to maintain 19,000 ft.

Radar data indicated that, after reaching about 18,700 ft, the airplane abruptly descended to about 17,400 ft, turned to the north, and climbed back up to about 18,500 ft. The controller advised the pilot he observed him turning north asked the pilot if he was okay, to which the pilot responded, "a little bit." Radar data indicated that the accident airplane then turned to the west, descending more rapidly as the airplane entered a right spiral. At the onset of this change in direction and descent, the controller advised the pilot that he observed him in a turn and descending and asked if he was in control, to which the pilot responded, "uh yes."

The controller then advised the accident pilot not to descend lower than 11,000 ft and cleared him to descend and maintain 11,000 ft. The controller advised "that's lowest I can get you." The pilot responded "alright (unintelligible) clear there." The controller advised he did not have any [weather] reports for that area and asked if he was planning to head back to the west, to which the pilot responded, "I'm at seventeen now".

The controller then advised the pilot he observed him doing some "S turns" and asked if he was proceeding to Grandby or heading back to the west. There was no response from the pilot. After two more attempts by the controller to reach the pilot, the pilot responded, "I hear you fine (unintelligible)." About 1744, the controller advised the accident pilot that Meeker airport was at his 3 o'clock and 17 miles, and there was an unintelligible response. There were no further recorded transmissions from the accident pilot.

The last radar target correlated with the accident aircraft was at 1743:33 and about 14,100 ft; however, OpsVue track data continued to record, showing the airplane in a continued descent until 1744:13 and about 10,300 ft before track data terminated. OpsVue is a commercially available web-based flight tracking program. The track is derived from a combination of several surveillance sources that are combined and a "mosaic" type of flight track is produced.

PERSONNEL INFORMATION

The pilot, age 62, held a private pilot certificate with a rating for airplane single-engine land. The pilot did not have an instrument rating. No pilot logbooks were available for review. On his most recent Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) third-class medical certificate application, dated November 6, 2015, the pilot reported about 600 total hours of flight experience, with 20 hours in the previous six months. The medical certificate was issued with a limitation that he: must have available glasses for near vision.

AIRCRAFT INFORMATION

Review of preaccident photographs of the airplane showed the airplane was equipped with a homebuilt oxygen system consisting of two oxygen tanks, two vinyl oxygen masks, and the associated vinyl oxygen supply tubing. The two oxygen tanks were attached to the fuselage wall behind the bulkhead on the left side of the airplane. The oxygen supply tubing attached to each tank and ran forward toward the cockpit area. The valves on the tanks were not able to be accessed to start or stop the flow of oxygen from the cockpit.

The airplane model has a service ceiling of 18,500 feet MSL.

METEOROLOGICAL INFORMATION

Although the pilot checked weather information prior to flight with Lockheed Martin Flight Service (LMFS), the data and weather information discussed was not able to be retrieved for this investigation. There was no indication that the pilot received any additional weather briefing information before the flight.

At the time and location of the accident, AIRMETs were active for IFR conditions, mountain obscuration, moderate icing below 12,000 ft, and moderate icing between the freezing level and 17,000 ft. The Area Forecast valid at the time of the accident predicted an overcast ceiling at 10,000 ft with layered clouds to 25,000 ft. Visibility of 3 miles, mist, and light snow were forecast through 1700 with visibility increasing to 5 miles with mist after 1700.

Meeker Coulter Field Airport (EEO), Meeker, Colorado, was located about 18 miles east of the accident site, at an elevation of 6,415 ft. The 1653 observation included calm wind, 9 miles visibility, light snow, an overcast ceiling at 3,900 ft agl, temperature -2°C, dew point of -8°C, and an altimeter setting of 29.89 inches of mercury. Remarks included: station with a precipitation discriminator, snow began at 1648, sea level pressure 1018.0 hPa, 1-hour precipitation trace, 6-hour precipitation trace, temperature -2.2°C, dew point -7.8°C, 6-hour maximum temperature of -0.6°C, 6-hour minimum temperature of -6.7°C, and 3-hour pressure increase of 1.0 hPa.

The 1753 observation included calm wind, 10 miles visibility, an overcast ceiling at 4,300 ft agl, temperature -2°C, dew point temperature -7°C, and an altimeter setting of 29.89 inches of mercury. Remarks included: station with a precipitation discriminator, snow ended at 1658, sea level pressure 1017.1 hPa, 1-hour precipitation trace, temperature -2.2°C, dew point temperature -6.7°C.

A North American Mesoscale (NAM) model sounding was created for the accident site for 1700. The sounding indicated a relatively moist vertical environment from 9,000 ft through 15,000 ft. This environment would have been conducive to cloud formation between 9,000 ft and 15,000 ft. The cloud tops likely extended higher, up to 19,000 ft according to satellite imagery and weather radar data. Icing (clear, rime, and mixed) was indicated between 9,000 ft and 14,000 ft. The 1700 MST NAM sounding was also close to saturation between -8°C and -15°C (between 9,000 and 14,000 ft) which is considered a temperature range supportive of the growth of super cooled liquid water droplets.

A more detailed description of the weather in the area of the accident site is available in the Meteorology - Group Chairman's Weather Study Report in the public docket.



WRECKAGE AND IMPACT INFORMATION

The airplane was located in tree- and sagebrush-covered, mountainous terrain about 19.5 miles west of Meeker, Colorado. The terrain elevation in the area varied from 6,200 to 6,400 ft msl. The main wreckage included the fuselage, left wing, engine, and propeller hub. The remaining wreckage was scattered over an area about 0.3 mile north-south by 0.4 mile east-west and was distributed in a manner consistent with an in-flight breakup. The wreckage was examined during recovery and later at a secure storage facility.

Airframe

Control continuity was established from the control yokes through the fuselage to the aft side of the center section rear spar. The right aileron cables fractured from the bell-crank in the right wing and the left aileron cables were cut during recovery. The ruddervator control and autopilot cables remained attached to the ruddervator differential mechanism in the tail and were cut at the forward end of the empennage during recovery. The ruddervator trim cables exhibited a splayed appearance consistent with tension overload. Continuity of the cables from the empennage to the rear spar could not be established because the cables were cut and removed during recovery.

The inboard portion of the right wing was deformed upward and there was diagonal wrinkling of the upper and lower wing skins. All 4 wing attach tension bolts were intact and installed through portions of the bathtub fittings. The fractures at the right wing separation point all exhibited a dull, grainy appearance consistent with overload. The left wing was located with the main wreckage and was partially attached to the fuselage.

The right stabilizer was found about 890 ft northwest of the main wreckage. The right stabilizer and ruddervator were mostly intact with little damage. The right stabilizer spars were fractured through the outboard attach bolt holes with upward deformation on the upper portions of the spars. The right upper stabilizer skin had a cable tear, and there was upward deformation of the leading edge cuff on the fuselage. The inboard half of the left ruddervator, located about 1,695 ft north-northeast from the main wreckage, was separated and recovered in several pieces. The left stabilizer was found about 1,430 feet north of the main wreckage. He left stabilizer had an area of impact damage with missing paint, metal transfer, red paint transfer, scraping and scoring. The left stabilizer forward spar had no obvious deformation, but the rear spar was buckled and deformed aft. There was a cable tear in the root rib in a forward direction and the leading edge cuff was undamaged.

Engine

The engine case was fractured, exposing the internal mechanisms of the engine. The crankcase was impact-damaged, and much of the crankcase structure was not recovered. Several pieces of the left and right crankcase halves remained attached to individual cylinder bases at the cylinder attach points. The crankshaft was bent to the right just forward of the main bearing saddle No. 3. The crankshaft was bent to the left at cylinder No. 5 rod attach point due to impact forces. The accessory case located on the rear of the engine case was not located. The camshaft gear, starter gear and magneto gears were exposed.

The right and left magnetos separated from the engine, but were recovered. It was not possible to identify the orientation of each magneto prior to separation. The magnetos would not rotate manually, so a teardown was performed. All internal components were accounted for. The plastic timing gears were intact, as were coils and point sets.

The left exhaust collector was heavily impact damaged and remained attached to cylinder Nos. 2 and 4 at the cylinder exhaust ports. The collector from cylinder No. 6 separated.

The right exhaust collector separated but was recovered. The collector received heavy impact damage. The exhaust muffler separated from the right exhaust collector and received crushing impact damage. The muffler remained open on both ends and no flame cone was present. The muffler cover was removed and inspected. No cracking or visible leakage was noted between the muffler and cover.



Propellers

Both propeller blades separated during the accident sequence. There was no obvious damage to the leading edges or blade faces. The retention nuts and counterweights remained installed on the blades. There was similar damage to the retention nut and hub threads on both sides, including fractured threads, smeared threads, and flattened areas.

Oxygen System

Two aluminum medical-grade oxygen bottles were found in the wreckage, each with a capacity of 24 cubic feet at 2015 psi. The bottles were removed and the valves on both bottles were found closed. The pressure on one bottle was 600 psi and the other was 1,200 psi.

A more detailed description of the wreckage is available in the Airworthiness Group Factual Report in the public docket.

MEDICAL AND PATHOLOGICAL INFORMATION

Pathology Group, P.C., Grand Junction, Colorado, performed an autopsy of the pilot. The cause of death was multiple blunt force injuries. A focal area of 50% stenosis was found in the mid-left anterior descending coronary artery, but the remainder of the examination of the heart and other organs did not identify any natural disease.

The FAA's Bioaeronautical Sciences Research Laboratory, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, performed toxicology testing on specimens of the pilot. The testing identified diazepam and its active metabolite nordiazepam; hydrocodone and its active metabolite dihydrocodeine; norcyclobenzaprine; and zolpidem in liver and kidney. No blood or urine specimens were available for testing. Diazepam, hydrocodone, cyclobenzaprine, and zolpidem are all potentially impairing medications, and each carried performance warnings about their use, particularly in combination.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Aeronautical Information Manual, Chapter 8-1-2, "Effects of Altitude:"

a. Hypoxia.

1. Hypoxia is a state of oxygen deficiency in the body sufficient to impair functions of the brain and other organs. Hypoxia from exposure to altitude is due only to the reduced barometric pressures encountered at altitude, for the concentration of oxygen in the atmosphere remains about 21 percent from the ground out to space.

2. Although a deterioration in night vision occurs at a cabin pressure altitude as low as 5,000 ft, other significant effects of altitude hypoxia usually do not occur in the normal healthy pilot below 12,000 ft. From 12,000 to 15,000 ft of altitude, judgment, memory, alertness, coordination and ability to make calculations are impaired, and headache, drowsiness, dizziness and either a sense of well-being (euphoria) or belligerence occur. The effects appear following increasingly shorter periods of exposure to increasing altitude. In fact, pilot performance can seriously deteriorate within 15 minutes at 15,000 ft.

3. At cabin pressure altitudes above 15,000 ft, the periphery of the visual field grays out to a point where only central vision remains (tunnel vision). A blue coloration (cyanosis) of the fingernails and lips develops. The ability to take corrective and protective action is lost in 20 to 30 minutes at 18,000 ft and 5 to 12 minutes at 20,000 ft, followed soon thereafter by unconsciousness.

4. The altitude at which significant effects of hypoxia occur can be lowered by a number of factors. Carbon monoxide inhaled in smoking or from exhaust fumes, lowered hemoglobin (anemia), and certain medications can reduce the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood to the degree that the amount of oxygen provided to body tissues will already be equivalent to the oxygen provided to the tissues when exposed to a cabin pressure altitude of several thousand feet. Small amounts of alcohol and low doses of certain drugs, such as antihistamines, tranquilizers, sedatives and analgesics can, through their depressant action, render the brain much more susceptible to hypoxia. Extreme heat and cold, fever, and anxiety increase the body's demand for oxygen, and hence its susceptibility to hypoxia.

5. The effects of hypoxia are usually quite difficult to recognize, especially when they occur gradually.

6. Hypoxia is prevented by heeding factors that reduce tolerance to altitude, by enriching the inspired air with oxygen from an appropriate oxygen system, and by maintaining a comfortable, safe cabin pressure altitude. For optimum protection, pilots are encouraged to use supplemental oxygen above 10,000 ft during the day, and above 5,000 ft at night. The CFRs require that at the minimum, flight crew be provided with and use supplemental oxygen after 30 minutes of exposure to cabin pressure altitudes between 12,500 and 14,000 ft and immediately on exposure to cabin pressure altitudes above 14,000 ft. Every occupant of the aircraft must be provided with supplemental oxygen at cabin pressure altitudes above 15,000 ft.

Pilot Information

Certificate: Private
Age: 62, Male
Airplane Rating(s): Single-engine Land
Seat Occupied: Left
Other Aircraft Rating(s): None
Restraint Used: Unknown
Instrument Rating(s): None
Second Pilot Present: No
Instructor Rating(s): None
Toxicology Performed: Yes
Medical Certification: Class 3 With Waivers/Limitations
Last FAA Medical Exam: 11/06/2015
Occupational Pilot: No
Last Flight Review or Equivalent:
Flight Time: 600 hours (Total, all aircraft) 

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Make: BEECH
Registration: N2025D
Model/Series: C35 NO SERIES
Aircraft Category: Airplane
Year of Manufacture: 1952
Amateur Built: No
Airworthiness Certificate: Normal
Serial Number: D-3376
Landing Gear Type: Retractable - Tricycle
Seats:
Date/Type of Last Inspection:
Certified Max Gross Wt.: 2703 lbs
Time Since Last Inspection:
Engines: 2 Reciprocating
Airframe Total Time:
Engine Manufacturer: CONT MOTOR
ELT:
Engine Model/Series: E185 SERIES
Registered Owner: On file
Rated Power: 185 hp
Operator: On file
Operating Certificate(s) Held: None

Meteorological Information and Flight Plan

Conditions at Accident Site: Visual Conditions
Condition of Light: Night
Observation Facility, Elevation: KEEO, 6366 ft msl
Distance from Accident Site:  18 Nautical Miles
Observation Time: 0053 UTC
Direction from Accident Site: 91°
Lowest Cloud Condition:
Visibility: 10 Miles
Lowest Ceiling: Overcast / 4300 ft agl
Visibility (RVR):
Wind Speed/Gusts: Calm /
Turbulence Type Forecast/Actual: /
Wind Direction:
Turbulence Severity Forecast/Actual: /
Altimeter Setting: 29.89 inches Hg
Temperature/Dew Point: -2°C / -7°C
Precipitation and Obscuration: No Obscuration; No Precipitation
Departure Point: PROVO, UT (PVU)
Type of Flight Plan Filed: None
Destination: GRANBY, CO (GNB)
Type of Clearance: None
Departure Time:
Type of Airspace:

Wreckage and Impact Information

Crew Injuries: 1 Fatal
Aircraft Damage: Destroyed
Passenger Injuries:  N/A
Aircraft Fire: None
Ground Injuries: N/A
Aircraft Explosion: None
Total Injuries: 1 Fatal
Latitude, Longitude: 40.052222, -108.278611






NTSB Identification: CEN16FA086 
14 CFR Part 91: General Aviation
Accident occurred Thursday, January 14, 2016 in Meeker, CO
Aircraft: BEECH C35, registration: N2025D
Injuries: 1 Fatal.

This is preliminary information, subject to change, and may contain errors. Any errors in this report will be corrected when the final report has been completed. NTSB investigators either traveled in support of this investigation or conducted a significant amount of investigative work without any travel, and used data obtained from various sources to prepare this aircraft accident report.

On January 14, 2016 about 1745 central standard time (CST), a Beechcraft C-35, N2025D, was destroyed when it impacted terrain near Meeker, Colorado. The airplane departed from Provo Municipal Airport (KPVU), Provo, Utah, enroute to Granby-Grand County Airport (KGNB), Granby, Colorado. The private pilot, the sole occupant, was fatally injured. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed for the personal flight that was conducted under the provisions of 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91. No instrument flight plan had been filed. 

According to preliminary information provided by the Federal Aviation Administration, while enroute during the accident flight, the pilot requested flight following from air traffic and requested clearance to fly a higher altitude to stay clear of clouds. After receiving flight following, air traffic control queried the pilot on his change of route and altitude before noticing the airplane descend and losing radar and radio contact. A search and rescue effort was activated and the airplane was found early the following morning in mountainous terrain.

British Airways, Airbus A321: Incident occurred August 05, 2019 in Valencia, Spain

NTSB Identification: ENG19WA031
Scheduled 14 CFR Unknown
Incident occurred Monday, August 05, 2019 in Valencia, Spain
Aircraft: AIRBUS A321, registration:
Injuries: Unavailable

The foreign authority was the source of this information.

The government of Spain has notified the NTSB of an incident involving a AIRBUS A321 airplane that occurred on August 5, 2019 operated by British Airways. The airplane was powered by two International Aero Engines V2533-A5 turbofan engines. During landing, it was reported that smoke filled the cabin and the source of the smoke was suspected to be from one of the engines. No injuries were reported.

The NTSB has appointed a U.S. Accredited Representative as the state of manufacturer of the engine to assist the government of Spain (CIAIAC) investigation under the provisions of ICAO Annex 13. All investigative information will be released by the government of Spain.

Loss of Control in Flight: Piper PA-23-250 Aztec E, N14372; fatal accident occurred January 17, 2019 near Bowers Field Airport (KELN), Ellensburg, Kittitas County, Washington



Aviation Accident Final Report - National Transportation Safety Board 

The National Transportation Safety Board did not travel to the scene of this accident.

Additional Participating Entities:
Federal Aviation Administration / Flight Standards District Office; Spokane, Washington
Lycoming Engines
Piper Aircraft Inc

Investigation Docket - National Transportation Safety Board:  https://data.ntsb.gov/Docket


Location: Ellensburg, Washington 
Accident Number: WPR19LA066
Date & Time: January 16, 2019, 16:45 Local 
Registration: N14372
Aircraft: Piper PA23 
Aircraft Damage: Destroyed
Defining Event: Loss of control in flight 
Injuries: 1 Fatal
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General aviation - Personal

Analysis

The instrument rated pilot departed into marginal visual flight rules conditions between sunset and the end of civil twilight. Shortly after takeoff, he contacted air traffic control and stated that he was in the clouds at 5,000 ft mean sea level (msl) and requested an instrument landing system approach at the destination airport. The controller issued the airplane a discrete transponder code and asked the pilot if he wanted an IFR clearance; however, the pilot did not respond, and no further communications were received from the airplane. Radar data showed that the airplane entered a descending left turn before radar contact was lost about 3,050 ft msl. Witnesses and surveillance video indicated that the airplane descended out of the clouds in a steep, nose-low attitude and impacted terrain. The extensive fragmentation of the wreckage precluded a thorough examination of the airplane's flight controls, instruments, and other systems; however, no anomalies were noted during examination of the engines.

AIRMETs for instrument flight rules (IFR), mountain obscuration, turbulence, and icing conditions were all valid for the area of the accident site at the time of the accident. Both the departure and destination airports reported overcast ceilings below 2,000 ft above ground level about the time of the accident, with surface temperatures just above freezing. An atmospheric sounding indicated a high potential for light rime icing and moderate turbulence at 5,000 ft in the vicinity of the accident site, and radar imagery suggested clouds and potential light icing conditions. There was no evidence that the pilot obtained a weather briefing before departure.

Although impact damage precluded a thorough examination of the airplane's flight instruments, the restricted visibility and lighting conditions present at the time were conducive to the development of spatial disorientation, and the airplane's descending turn and high-energy impact are consistent with the known effects of spatial disorientation.

Probable Cause and Findings

The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident to be:
The instrument rated pilot’s loss of control due to spatial disorientation.

Findings

Personnel issues Spatial disorientation - Pilot
Environmental issues Below VFR minima - Effect on operation
Personnel issues Aircraft control - Pilot

Factual Information

HISTORY OF FLIGHT

On January 17, 2019, at 1645 Pacific standard time, a Piper PA23-250 airplane, N14372, was destroyed when it was involved in an accident near Ellensburg, Washington. The pilot was fatally injured. The airplane was operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 91 personal flight. The flight originated from Bowers Field Airport (ELN), Ellensburg, Washington, about 1639, and was destined for McAllister Field Airport (YKM), Yakima, Washington, located about 28 nautical miles south. Radar data showed the airplane depart ELN to the northwest, make an approximate 180° left turn to the southeast, and then make a turn southwest before flying south. (See Figure 1). At 1644, the airplane had reached an altitude of 4,750 ft mean sea level (msl); shortly thereafter, it entered a descending left turn before radar data ended at 16:45:18 and 3,050 ft msl.

The instrument rated pilot contacted air traffic control after departure and stated that he was in the clouds at 5,000 ft, and he requested the instrument landing system RWY27 approach at YKM. The controller issued the pilot a discrete transponder code and asked the pilot if he was requesting an IFR clearance, but the pilot did not respond, and no further communications were received from the airplane. 

One witness at ELN reported that he helped the pilot clear snow from his airplane. The accident pilot indicated to him that he had hoped to conduct the flight in visual flight rules (VFR) conditions. The witness looked to the south and indicated that he could see the ridge to the south in some places but not in others and stated that the whole valley was covered by clouds "here and there." The accident pilot indicated that he would be contacting air traffic control for vectors around the weather.

A witness near the accident scene heard the airplane flying low and looked up to see it "diving down sideways." A second witness stated that he heard the engines "gunning" and he looked up and saw a two-engine airplane descending nose-low before it impacted the ground.

Video of the accident, which was taken from about 3 miles southeast of the accident site, was consistent with the witness observations. The video showed the airplane exiting clouds and remaining in an approximate 30° nose-low attitude and at a significant bank angle until it impacted the ground.

METEOROLOGICAL INFORMATION 

AIRMETs for instrument flight rules (IFR), mountain obscuration, turbulence, and icing conditions were all valid for the area of the accident site at the time of the accident. The station models on the surface analysis chart surrounding the accident site depicted calm to light winds of 5 knots or less, overcast clouds, temperatures in the low-to-mid 30s °F, and dew point temperatures in the low 30s to high 20s °F, or temperature-dew spreads of 4°F or less. Several stations west, northeast, and east of the accident site reported snow showers, and a station south of the accident site report visibility restricted in mist or fog.

The National Composite Radar Image depicted several areas of echoes associated with rain and snow showers extending over and north of the Ellensburg area and another area immediately south of the accident site. Very light intensity echoes were identified within 5 miles east and south of the accident site. The 1653 observation at YKM included 10 miles visibility, an overcast ceiling at 1,300 ft agl, temperature 3°C, and dew point 1°C.

The end of civil twilight occurred at 1717 on the day of the accident.

There was no evidence that the pilot obtained a weather briefing from an official, access-controlled source before departing on the flight.

WRECKAGE AND IMPACT INFORMATION

The wreckage debris path was orientated on a 213° magnetic heading and extended about 350 ft. Ground signatures and the orientation of the wreckage indicated that the airplane impacted the ground in a noselow, left-wing-low attitude. The wreckage was highly fragmented; impact damage precluded determination of flight control continuity and examination of the flight instruments.

Both engines were examined, and no anomalies were noted that would have precluded normal operation. The propellers were found separated from both engines. Both propeller assemblies displayed symmetry of impact damage. Chordwise scratches and leading-edge gouges were present on all blades.

MEDICAL AND PATHOLOGICAL INFORMATION

An autopsy was conducted on the pilot by the King County Medical Examiner, Seattle, Washington, and the cause of death was attributed to multiple blunt force injuries. Toxicology testing performed by the FAA Forensic Sciences Laboratory was negative for ethanol. Tamsulosin was detected in liver and muscle specimens. Tamsulosin, brand name Flomax, is a urinary retention medication used to treat an enlarged prostrate. The pilot had reported the use of Tamsulosin on his most recent flight physical and no restrictions to flight were issued because of it.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

The FAA Civil Aeromedical Institute publication, "Introduction to Aviation Physiology," defines spatial disorientation as a “loss of proper bearings; state of mental confusion as to position, location, or movement relative to the position of the earth.” Factors contributing to spatial disorientation include changes in acceleration, flight in IFR conditions, frequent transfer between visual flight rules and IFR conditions, and unperceived changes in aircraft attitude. 

The FAA’s Airplane Flying Handbook (FAA-H-8083-3B) describes some hazards associated with flying when the ground or horizon are obscured. The handbook states, in part, the following:

The vestibular sense (motion sensing by the inner ear) in particular can and will confuse the pilot.

Because of inertia, the sensory areas of the inner ear cannot detect slight changes in airplane attitude, nor can they accurately sense attitude changes that occur at a uniform rate over a period of time. On the other hand, false sensations are often generated, leading the pilot to believe the attitude of the airplane has changed when, in fact, it has not. These false sensations result in the pilot experiencing spatial disorientation.

History of Flight

Enroute-cruise Loss of control in flight (Defining event)
Uncontrolled descent Collision with terr/obj (non-CFIT)

Pilot Information

Certificate: Commercial 
Age: 75,Male
Airplane Rating(s): Single-engine land; Multi-engine land
Seat Occupied: Unknown
Other Aircraft Rating(s): None
Restraint Used: Unknown
Instrument Rating(s): Airplane 
Second Pilot Present: No
Instructor Rating(s): None
Toxicology Performed: Yes
Medical Certification: Class 2 With waivers/limitations 
Last FAA Medical Exam: February 20, 2017
Occupational Pilot: No 
Last Flight Review or Equivalent:
Flight Time: 1935 hours (Total, all aircraft), 4 hours (Last 90 days, all aircraft)

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Make: Piper
Registration: N14372
Model/Series: PA23 250
Aircraft Category: Airplane
Year of Manufacture: 1972 
Amateur Built: No
Airworthiness Certificate: Normal 
Serial Number: 27-7304961
Landing Gear Type: Retractable - Tricycle
Seats: 6
Date/Type of Last Inspection: November 6, 2018 
Annual Certified Max Gross Wt.:
Time Since Last Inspection: 
Engines: 2 Reciprocating
Airframe Total Time: 4795.5 Hrs as of last inspection
Engine Manufacturer: Lycoming
ELT: 
Engine Model/Series: TIO-540
Registered Owner: 
Rated Power:
Operator: On file 
Operating Certificate(s) Held: None

Meteorological Information and Flight Plan

Conditions at Accident Site: Visual (VMC)
Condition of Light: Dusk
Observation Facility, Elevation: KELN 
Distance from Accident Site:
Observation Time: 00:53 Local 
Direction from Accident Site:
Lowest Cloud Condition: 
Visibility: 4 miles
Lowest Ceiling: Overcast / 1500 ft AGL 
Visibility (RVR):
Wind Speed/Gusts: 4 knots / 
Turbulence Type Forecast/Actual:  /
Wind Direction: 140° 
Turbulence Severity Forecast/Actual:  /
Altimeter Setting: 29.7 inches Hg 
Temperature/Dew Point: 2°C / 0°C
Precipitation and Obscuration: Moderate - None - Mist
Departure Point: Ellensburg, WA (KELN)
Type of Flight Plan Filed: None
Destination: Yakima, WA (YKM) 
Type of Clearance: None
Departure Time: 16:31 Local
Type of Airspace: Class G

Airport

Runway Surface Type:
Airport Elevation: 
Runway Surface Condition:
Runway Used: 
IFR Approach: None
Runway Length/Width:
VFR Approach/Landing: None

Wreckage and Impact Information

Crew Injuries: 1 Fatal
Aircraft Damage: Destroyed
Passenger Injuries:
Aircraft Fire: None
Ground Injuries: Aircraft
Explosion: None
Total Injuries: 1 Fatal
Latitude, Longitude: 46.947223,-120.512779(est)

Location: Ellensburg, WA
Accident Number: WPR19LA066
Date & Time: 01/17/2019, 1645 PST
Registration: N14372
Aircraft: Piper PA23
Injuries: 1 Fatal
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General Aviation - Personal 

On January 17, 2019, about 1645 Pacific standard time, a Piper PA23-250 airplane, N14372, impacted the ground near Ellensburg, Washington. The commercial pilot was fatally injured, and the airplane was destroyed. The airplane was registered to and operated by the pilot as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 personal flight. Visual meteorological conditions existed at the accident site about the time of the accident, and no flight plan had been filed. The flight originated from Bowers Field Airport (ELN), Ellensburg, Washington about 1631 and was destined for McAllister Field Airport (YKM), Yakima, Washington.

One witness who was about 2,300 ft northwest of the accident site reported that, he heard a low flying airplane which caused him to look up. He observed the airplane about 200-300 ft above the ground, "diving down sideways." He heard a loud bang and drove towards the wreckage.

Another witness located about 200 ft southeast of the accident site reported seeing the airplane about 300 ft above the ground and heard the engines "gunning." He observed the airplane impact the ground about 45° angle, right wing low.

The airplane impacted flat terrain. The wreckage debris path was orientated on a magnetic heading about 213° and was about 350 ft from the first piece of identified wreckage to the last piece of identified wreckage.

The wreckage was recovered and transported to a secure facility for further examination. 

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Make: Piper
Registration: N14372
Model/Series: PA23 250
Aircraft Category: Airplane
Amateur Built: No
Operator: On file
Operating Certificate(s) Held: None

Meteorological Information and Flight Plan

Conditions at Accident Site: Visual Conditions
Condition of Light: Dusk
Observation Facility, Elevation: KELN
Observation Time: 0053 UTC
Distance from Accident Site:
Temperature/Dew Point: 2°C / 0°C
Lowest Cloud Condition:
Wind Speed/Gusts, Direction: 4 knots / , 140°
Lowest Ceiling: Overcast / 1500 ft agl
Visibility:  4 Miles
Altimeter Setting: 29.71 inches Hg
Type of Flight Plan Filed: None
Departure Point: Ellensburg, WA (KELN)
Destination: Yakima, WA (YKM)

Wreckage and Impact Information

Crew Injuries: 1 Fatal
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Passenger Injuries: N/A
Aircraft Fire: None
Ground Injuries: N/A
Aircraft Explosion: None
Total Injuries: 1 Fatal
Latitude, Longitude:  46.947222, -120.512778 (est)

Dr. Frank Smith 

A pilot who died in a small plane crash two miles south of Ellensburg on Thursday was a surgeon at Kittitas Valley Healthcare who lived in the lower Yakima Valley.

Dr. Frank L. Smith, 75, of Wapato was the only person on board the Piper PA-23-250 Aztec E when it crashed.

Smith grew up in the San Fernando Valley in California and moved to Toppenish in 2001 to work at the Yakima Valley Farm Workers Clinic, and bought a home and orchard in Wapato, according to a biography on Kittitas Valley Healthcare website. He went to work at KVH in Ellensburg in 2010.

“Frank was a gifted surgeon, but moreover a gracious and gentle man,” Dr. Kevin Martin, KVH Chief Medical Officer, said in a statement. “Over and over I’ve heard people say that you always knew where you stood with Frank, and that he ended every conversation with ‘I love you.’ We all felt we stood in that warm heart. He leaves us better for that and we can only hope he knew he was just as loved.”

Smith was a graduate of Harvard Medical School and did his residency at the Peter Bent Brigham Hospital (now Brigham and Women’s Hospital) in Boston. He was a civil rights activist in college, participated in the march from Selma and the March on Washington in 1963, and served in the U.S. Air Force, according to the biography.

Investigators believe Smith was on his way to Yakima when the plane crashed, according to a news release from the sheriff’s office.

A farmer reported the downed aircraft in his field at 5 p.m. Thursday. The cause of the crash is under investigation.

The Sheriff’s Office said Smith appropriately communicated his take-off and direction from Bowers Field in Ellensburg a few minutes before the crash.

Original article can be found here ➤ https://www.yakimaherald.com

Piper PA-24-250 Comanche, N6497P: Accident occurred January 18, 2019 in Beechwood, Sheboygan County, Wisconsin

The National Transportation Safety Board did not travel to the scene of this accident.

Aviation Accident Preliminary Report - National Transportation Safety Board: https://app.ntsb.gov/pdf


https://registry.faa.gov/N6497P

Location: Beechwood, WI
Accident Number: CEN19LA071
Date & Time: 01/18/2019, 1520 CST
Registration: N6497P
Aircraft: Piper PA24
Injuries: 1 Minor
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General Aviation - Personal 

On January 18, 2019, about 1520 central standard time, a Piper PA24, N6497P, registered to a private individual, sustained substantial damage during a forced landing after a partial loss of engine power near Beechwood, Wisconsin. The private pilot, who was the sole occupant, sustained minor injuries. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed and a flight plan was not filed. The personal flight was being conducted under the provisions of Federal Code of Regulations Part 91. The flight originated at 1430 from the Burlington Municipal Airport (BUU), Burlington, Wisconsin, and its destination was the J Douglas Bake Municipal Airport (OCQ), Oconto, Wisconsin.

Before takeoff from BUU, the pilot fueled the airplane with 24 gallons in the left tank, and 12 gallons in the right tank. After a pre-flight and runup, the pilot took off for the flight to OCQ. The pilot was cruising at 3,000 feet MSL when he noticed the carburetor temperature gauge moving through the yellow arc (cooling) toward the red arc (getting colder). About the same time, the engine was beginning to loose power and RPM's were dropping. The pilot pushed the mixture to 'Full Rich', pulled the carburetor heat 'ON', switched fuel tanks, and switched magnetos. After the application of carburetor heat, the engine roughness became worse. The pilot then turned off the carburetor heat and the engine seemed to run smoother, but was still losing power and dropping RPM's. The pilot pulled the carburetor heat 'ON' again and the roughness returned, so he turned off the carburetor heat. At this point, the airplane had descended down to 1,200 feet. With only partial engine power, the pilot selected a filed for a gear-up forced landing. During the landing the airplane sustained substantial damage to the forward part of the fuselage and the pilot exited with minor injuries.

The airplane wreckage was transported to a local facility.

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Make: Piper
Registration: N6497P
Model/Series: PA24 250
Aircraft Category: Airplane
Amateur Built: No
Operator: On file
Operating Certificate(s) Held: None

Meteorological Information and Flight Plan

Conditions at Accident Site: Visual Conditions
Condition of Light: Day
Observation Facility, Elevation: SBM, 755 ft msl
Observation Time: 1453 CST
Distance from Accident Site: 10 Nautical Miles
Temperature/Dew Point: -7°C / -14°C
Lowest Cloud Condition: Clear
Wind Speed/Gusts, Direction: 5 knots / , 30°
Lowest Ceiling: Overcast / 7500 ft agl
Visibility:  10 Miles
Altimeter Setting: 30.22 inches Hg
Type of Flight Plan Filed: None
Departure Point: Burlington, WI (BUU)
Destination: Oconto, WI (OCQ)

Wreckage and Impact Information

Crew Injuries: 1 Minor
Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Passenger Injuries: N/A
Aircraft Fire: Unknown
Ground Injuries: N/A
Aircraft Explosion: Unknown
Total Injuries: 1 Minor
Latitude, Longitude: 45.606389, -88.109167 (est)



TOWN OF SCOTT - Police have released the name of the pilot injured when a single-passenger plane made an emergency hard landing Friday afternoon in Sheboygan County. 

Michael Kruswick, 64, of Algoma was the pilot and only occupant of the aircraft.

Kruswick sustained non-incapacitating injuries, according to a press release from the Sheboygan County Sheriff's Office.  

The reason for the crash is still not known and remains under investigation by the sheriff's office and the Federal Aviation Administration.

The Sheboygan County Emergency Communications Center received a 911 call about 3:20 p.m. on Friday about a plane that had an emergency hard landing in the area of County S and Ida Lane in the town of Scott, according to the Sheboygan County Sheriff's Office.

The pilot told 911 operators he lost power and tried an emergency landing, according to authorities. The aircraft sustained damage upon landing and the pilot was injured and taken to a nearby hospital.

The aircraft involved was a Piper PA-24-250 Comanche. 

In addition to the sheriff's office, Beechwood Fire Department, Town of Scott First Responders, Random Lake Fire Department and Orange Cross Ambulance also responded to the scene.

Original article ➤ https://www.sheboyganpress.com









SHEBOYGAN COUNTY — Sheboygan County officials tell FOX6 News a pilot was injured after making an emergency landing in a small plane near Ida Lane and County Road S in the Town of Scott. The crash happened on Friday afternoon, Jan. 18.

The Sheboygan County Sheriff’s Office says they received a 911 call from the pilot around 3:22 p.m., explaining he lost power in his  Piper PA-24-250 Comanche and attempted an emergency landing.

Officials say the pilot was injured upon landing and the aircraft was damaged.

The Federal Aviation Administration is investigating the crash along with the Sheboygan County Sheriff’s Office.

Original article can be found here ➤ https://fox6now.com

Southwest Airlines, Boeing 737-7H4, N740SW: Incident occurred September 27, 2019 at St. Louis Lambert International Airport (KSTL), Missouri -and- Accident occurred November 19, 2017 at Los Angeles International Airport (KLAX), California

Federal Aviation Administration / Flight Standards District Office; Saint Louis

September 27, 2019: Aircraft blew right main landing gear upon landing damaging gear and flaps.

Southwest Airlines Company

https://registry.faa.gov/N740SW

Date: 27-SEP-19
Time: 00:45:00Z
Regis#: N740SW
Aircraft Make: BOEING
Aircraft Model: 737
Event Type: INCIDENT
Highest Injury: NONE
Aircraft Missing: No
Damage: UNKNOWN
Activity: COMMERCIAL
Flight Phase: LANDING (LDG)
Operation: 121
Aircraft Operator: SOUTHWEST AIRLINES
Flight Number: SWA2291
City: ST LOUIS
State: MISSOURI

Aviation Accident Final Report - National Transportation Safety Board:  https://app.ntsb.gov/pdf

Investigation Docket - National Transportation Safety Board: https://dms.ntsb.gov/pubdms

Aviation Accident Data Summary - National Transportation Safety Board: https://app.ntsb.gov/pdf

Location: Los Angeles, CA
Accident Number: DCA18CA074
Date & Time: 11/19/2017, 1230 PST
Registration: N740SW
Aircraft: BOEING 737 7H4
Aircraft Damage: None
Defining Event: Ground handling event
Injuries: 1 Serious, 5 None
Flight Conducted Under: Part 121: Air Carrier - Scheduled

Analysis 

On November 11, 2017, about 1230 Pacific standard time, Southwest Airlines flight 1159, a Boeing 737-700, N740SW, had a provisioning agent fall from the airplane while parked at Gate 13 at Los Angeles International Airport (KLAX), Los Angeles, California . The flight was deplaning and onboard were the captain, first officer, three flight attendants, several passengers, and the provisioning agent. The regularly scheduled passenger flight was operating under the provisions of 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 121 from San Francisco International Airport (KSFO), San Francisco, California, to KLAX.

According to the operator, the provisioning vans platform/box assembly malfunctioned and lowered about 2-3 feet. As the provisioning agent was moving from the airplane to the platform he lost situational awareness and fell onto the lowered platform, injuring his shoulder. The agent was transported to the hospital and diagnosed with a fractured right shoulder. The van was removed from service and the left side tape switch was found to have dislodged from its track, resulting in the uncommanded lowering of the platform.

Probable Cause and Findings

The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident to be:
The provisioning agent's lack of situational awareness while stepping from the airplane to the provisioning van. Contributing to the accident was the provisioning vans failed switch.

Findings

Personnel issues
Attention - Ground crew (Cause)

Environmental issues
Ground equipment - Contributed to outcome (Factor)

Factual Information

History of Flight

Prior to flight
Ground handling event (Defining event)

Pilot Information

Certificate: Airline Transport; Flight Instructor
Age: 59, Male
Airplane Rating(s): Multi-engine Land
Seat Occupied: Left
Other Aircraft Rating(s): None
Restraint Used:4-point 
Instrument Rating(s): Airplane
Second Pilot Present:
Instructor Rating(s): Airplane Single-engine
Toxicology Performed: No
Medical Certification: Class 1 Without Waivers/Limitations
Last FAA Medical Exam: 09/18/2017
Occupational Pilot: Yes
Last Flight Review or Equivalent: 10/28/2017
Flight Time:   15243 hours (Total, all aircraft), 8500 hours (Total, this make and model), 8500 hours (Pilot In Command, all aircraft), 207 hours (Last 90 days, all aircraft), 78 hours (Last 30 days, all aircraft), 0 hours (Last 24 hours, all aircraft)

Co-Pilot Information

Certificate: Airline Transport
Age: 47, Male
Airplane Rating(s): Multi-engine Land; Single-engine Land
Seat Occupied: Right
Other Aircraft Rating(s): None
Restraint Used: 4-point
Instrument Rating(s): Airplane
Second Pilot Present:
Instructor Rating(s): None
Toxicology Performed: No
Medical Certification: Class 1 Without Waivers/Limitations
Last FAA Medical Exam: 03/30/2017
Occupational Pilot: Yes
Last Flight Review or Equivalent: 03/27/2017
Flight Time:  4179 hours (Total, all aircraft), 1082 hours (Total, this make and model), 3553 hours (Pilot In Command, all aircraft), 260 hours (Last 90 days, all aircraft), 101 hours (Last 30 days, all aircraft) 

Aircraft and Owner/Operator Information

Aircraft Make: BOEING
Registration: N740SW
Model/Series: 737 7H4 7H4
Aircraft Category: Airplane
Year of Manufacture: 1998
Amateur Built: No
Airworthiness Certificate: Transport
Serial Number: 29276
Landing Gear Type: Retractable - Tricycle
Seats:
Date/Type of Last Inspection:
Certified Max Gross Wt.: 154500 lbs
Time Since Last Inspection:
Engines: 2 Turbo Fan
Airframe Total Time:
Engine Manufacturer: CFM INTL.
ELT:
Engine Model/Series: CFM56 SERIES
Registered Owner: SOUTHWEST AIRLINES CO
Rated Power:
Operator: Southwest Airlines
Operating Certificate(s) Held: Flag carrier (121)
Operator Does Business As:
Operator Designator Code: SWAA 

Meteorological Information and Flight Plan

Conditions at Accident Site: Visual Conditions
Condition of Light: Day
Observation Facility, Elevation: LAX
Distance from Accident Site: 0 Nautical Miles
Observation Time: 1953 UTC
Direction from Accident Site: 0°
Lowest Cloud Condition: Clear
Visibility:  10 Miles
Lowest Ceiling: Broken
Visibility (RVR):
Wind Speed/Gusts: 10 knots /
Turbulence Type Forecast/Actual: / None
Wind Direction: 270°
Turbulence Severity Forecast/Actual: / N/A
Altimeter Setting:
Temperature/Dew Point:
Precipitation and Obscuration:
Departure Point: San Francisco, CA (SFO)
Type of Flight Plan Filed: None
Destination: Los Angeles, CA (LAX)
Type of Clearance: None
Departure Time: 1050 PST
Type of Airspace: Unknown

Airport Information

Airport: Los Angeles International (LAX)
Runway Surface Type: N/A
Airport Elevation: 126 ft
Runway Surface Condition: Unknown
Runway Used: N/A
IFR Approach: None
Runway Length/Width:
VFR Approach/Landing: None

Wreckage and Impact Information

Crew Injuries: 5 None
Aircraft Damage: None
Passenger Injuries: N/A
Aircraft Fire: None
Ground Injuries: 1 Serious
Aircraft Explosion: None
Total Injuries: 1 Serious, 5 None
Latitude, Longitude:  33.945000, -118.408056 (est)