What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1984-02-25 involved a Cessna 310K, registration N3805X, at Monticello, IN.

Aircraft Enters Steep Bank and Collides with Ground After Takeoff (N3805X)

On February 25, 1984, a Cessna 310K (registration N3805X) was involved in an aviation accident near Monticello, IN. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

After takeoff, an aircraft climbed to about 400 ft AGL, entered a steep left bank, then leveled off. On downwind, the crew reported returning. Near the base turn point, it entered another steep left bank, nose dropped, and it flew into the ground and burned. No preimpact mechanical failure found.

Accident Sequence

After takeoff, the aircraft was observed to climb to approximately 400 feet above ground level (AGL). It then entered a steep left bank before leveling off and rolling out on a downwind leg that was angling toward the runway. During the downwind leg, a crewmember transmitted over the radio that they were "coming back." According to the UNICOM operator, the crewmember sounded disgusted or disappointed about something.

At or near the point where the pilot would have begun a base turn, the aircraft entered another steep left bank. Subsequently, the nose dropped and the aircraft "flew" into the ground, resulting in a post-crash fire.

Investigation Findings

No preimpact mechanical malfunction or failure was found during the investigation.

1984-02-25: Cessna 310K (N3805X) — Monticello, IN

Accident Sequence

Investigation Findings

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