Casualties unknown

Aircraft Breaks Up In-Flight After Pilot Encounters Thunderstorm (N215D)

Wewoka, OK, US

On May 26, 1984, a Beech BE35G (registration N215D) was involved in an aviation accident near Wewoka, OK. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

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

The pilot, not current in instrument meteorological conditions, departed despite a thunderstorm forecast. En route, he was advised of a thunderstorm and decided to return. Witnesses observed the aircraft diving from low clouds, and wreckage examination showed in-flight separation before impact.

Background

Investigation revealed that the pilot was not current in instrument meteorological conditions (IMC) operations. Additionally, the aircraft was not certified for instrument flight. Prior to departure, the pilot obtained a weather briefing that forecast a chance of thunderstorms along the intended route.

Flight

The pilot departed on a cross-country flight. While en route, he contacted Oklahoma City En Route Flight Advisory Service (EFAS). The briefer advised him of a thunderstorm near Oklahoma City. The pilot stated that he would return to Ardmore.

Witnesses and Wreckage

Witnesses on the ground observed the aircraft descending in a dive out of the low cloud base. Examination of the wreckage indicated that the aircraft separated in flight at a low altitude before impacting the ground.

Probable Cause

No probable cause was determined by the source material.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 26 May 1984 Beech BE35G accident near Wewoka, OK?

The pilot, not current in instrument meteorological conditions, departed despite a thunderstorm forecast. En route, he was advised of a thunderstorm and decided to return. Witnesses observed the aircraft diving from low clouds, and wreckage examination showed in-flight separation before impact.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 26 May 1984 involved a Beech BE35G, registration N215D, at Wewoka, OK.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X39572. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.