Casualties unknown

Low-Altitude Maneuver Precedes Crash in Field Near Interstate (N50CN)

Avenal, CA, US

On November 11, 1985, a Beech 35 (registration N50CN) operated by Melvin M. Banton was involved in an aviation accident near Avenal, CA. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

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

A pilot received two weather briefings that VFR flight was not recommended. Witnesses saw the aircraft flying low under clouds, then an abrupt left turn and crash, followed by a fireball.

Accident Overview

A pilot obtained a weather briefing twice before departure and was advised each time that VFR flight along his intended route was not recommended. Despite the advisories, the flight proceeded.

Witness Accounts

One witness observed the aircraft flying at a low altitude below a cloud layer. The aircraft then made an abrupt left descending turn and subsequently crashed in a field.

Another witness, driving on Interstate 5, reported seeing the aircraft pass overhead at an altitude of 300 to 400 feet above ground level, below the clouds. Shortly thereafter, the witness saw a ball of flames adjacent to the highway.

Aftermath

The crash resulted in a fire, as indicated by the witness's observation of flames. No further details about the aircraft, occupants, or injuries are available from the provided source.

All Beech 35 accidents →

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 11 Nov 1985 Beech 35 accident near Avenal, CA?

A pilot received two weather briefings that VFR flight was not recommended. Witnesses saw the aircraft flying low under clouds, then an abrupt left turn and crash, followed by a fireball.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 11 Nov 1985 involved a Beech 35, registration N50CN, operated by Melvin M. Banton, at Avenal, CA.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X38251. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.