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4 fatalities

Pilot Loses Control in Instrument Meteorological Conditions, Crashes on 11,000-Foot Plateau (N1611C)

Eagle, CO, US

On October 11, 1985, a Cessna 180 (registration N1611C) was involved in an aviation accident near Eagle, CO. 4 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's encounter with instrument meteorological conditions and subsequent loss of control while not being instrument rated. 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

A pilot with three passengers on a hunting site scouting flight encountered instrument meteorological conditions, lost control, and crashed on an 11,000-foot plateau. The pilot was not instrument rated. All occupants were fatally injured.

Accident Details

The pilot departed Eagle Airport with three passengers for a flight to the White Owl Lake area. The purpose was to search for a possible camping site for hunting activities. During the flight, the pilot encountered instrument meteorological conditions (IMC) and lost control of the aircraft. The pilot did not hold an instrument rating.

Witness and Environmental Conditions

Hunters in the area reported low ceilings and visibility with snow squalls at the time of the accident. Witnesses on the ground heard the engine sound stop but were unable to see the aircraft because visibility was reduced by snow.

Crash Site and Wreckage

The aircraft crashed on an 11,000-foot plateau. Examination of the accident site revealed that the aircraft impacted in a 45-degree nose-low, left-wing-low attitude.

Occupants

All four occupants (pilot and three passengers) were fatally injured.

Probable cause

The pilot's encounter with instrument meteorological conditions and subsequent loss of control while not being instrument rated.
Weather

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 11 Oct 1985 Cessna 180 accident near Eagle, CO?

A pilot with three passengers on a hunting site scouting flight encountered instrument meteorological conditions, lost control, and crashed on an 11,000-foot plateau. The pilot was not instrument rated. All occupants were fatally injured.

Were there any fatalities in the 11 Oct 1985 Cessna 180 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 4 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 11 Oct 1985 involved a Cessna 180, registration N1611C, at Eagle, CO.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's encounter with instrument meteorological conditions and subsequent loss of control while not being instrument rated.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X37998. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.