On September 9, 1985, a Piper PA-28-160 (registration N5488W) was involved in an aviation accident near Key West, FL. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An aircraft flying from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, to Key West lost radar and radio contact approximately 20 nautical miles northeast of Key West. The occupants are presumed fatal.
What happened
An aircraft departed from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, with an intended destination of Key West, Florida. Navy Key West Approach was providing VFR flight following services during the journey. Radar and radio contact with the aircraft were lost approximately 20 nautical miles northeast of Key West. The whereabouts of the occupants remain unknown, and they are presumed fatal. The aircraft is missing, and the damage index is presumed to be destroyed.
Findings
The loss of radar and radio contact occurred during the en route phase of flight. The aircraft failed to arrive at its intended destination. The occupants are presumed fatal.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 9 Sept 1985 Piper PA-28-160 accident near Key West, FL?
An aircraft flying from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, to Key West lost radar and radio contact approximately 20 nautical miles northeast of Key West. The occupants are presumed fatal.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 9 Sept 1985 involved a Piper PA-28-160, registration N5488W, at Key West, FL.
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