On September 23, 1985, a Piper PA-28-140 (registration N1785J) was involved in an aviation accident near Gulfport, MS. 2 people were killed. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
The pilot navigated through lines of showers despite warnings, reporting bumpy conditions before losing contact. Both the pilot and a passenger were later recovered from the Gulf of Mexico.
What happened
The pilot initiated contact with approach control to request weather advisories for the intended route. Air traffic controllers informed the pilot that lines of showers existed across the path. The pilot responded that he believed he had identified a gap in the weather and felt confident he could fly over it.
Later, the pilot radioed back to report that the ride was bouncy and that he was flying in rain. Shortly after this transmission, the aircraft disappeared from radar displays, and all radio contact was lost. The bodies of the pilot and a passenger were subsequently recovered from the Gulf of Mexico.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 23 Sept 1985 Piper PA-28-140 accident near Gulfport, MS?
The pilot navigated through lines of showers despite warnings, reporting bumpy conditions before losing contact. Both the pilot and a passenger were later recovered from the Gulf of Mexico.
Were there any fatalities in the 23 Sept 1985 Piper PA-28-140 accident?
The accident was fatal, resulting in 2 fatalities.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 23 Sept 1985 involved a Piper PA-28-140, registration N1785J, at Gulfport, MS.
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