Casualties unknown

Pilot Encounters Severe Turbulence While Penetrating Thunderstorm Line (N417EM)

High Island, US

On March 23, 1983, a Beech 200 (registration N417EM) was involved in an aviation accident near High Island. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot reported severe turbulence while being vectored around thunderstorms and attempting to penetrate a four-mile-wide line of thunderstorms, resulting in substantial damage to both wings.

Incident

A pilot reported encountering severe turbulence while being vectored around thunderstorms. The incident occurred as the pilot attempted to penetrate a line of thunderstorms approximately four miles wide. The course of penetration was selected based on the area of least intensity, as determined by the aircraft's radar, center radar, and reports from preceding aircraft.

Pilot Report

The pilot stated that the turbulence was encountered during the penetration. He further described the event as clear air turbulence.

Aircraft Damage

Examination of the aircraft revealed substantial damage to both wings.

All Beechcraft King Air 200 accidents →

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 23 Mar 1983 Beech 200 accident near High Island?

A pilot reported severe turbulence while being vectored around thunderstorms and attempting to penetrate a four-mile-wide line of thunderstorms, resulting in substantial damage to both wings.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 23 Mar 1983 involved a Beech 200, registration N417EM, at High Island.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X42448. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.