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In-Flight Separation of Horizontal Stabilizer and Wings on Approach to Runway 34L (N2082S)

West Valley, UT, US

On December 29, 1985, a Cessna T210L (registration N2082S) operated by Peter O. And Biruta Macs was involved in an aviation accident near West Valley, UT. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Horizontal stabilizer failure was a result of excessive speed and pilot induced aerodynamic overload. 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

During approach to runway 34L, the right horizontal stabilizer, elevators, and wings separated in flight. Investigation found the pilot was not instrument current and the stabilizer failure resulted from excessive speed and pilot-induced aerodynamic overload.

Aircraft and Flight Details

The aircraft, registration N2082S, was on approach to runway 34L. NTAP data indicated the aircraft was at an altitude of 7,400 feet and a ground speed of 203 knots at the outer marker. The minimum crossing altitude (MCA) at the marker is 6,100 feet.

Accident Sequence

During the approach, the right horizontal stabilizer, elevators, and wings separated in flight. Witnesses observed the aircraft breakup just below a low cloud ceiling.

Investigation Findings

Examination of the wreckage revealed that the horizontal stabilizer failure was a result of excessive speed and pilot-induced aerodynamic overload. The investigation also determined that the pilot was not current in instrument flight.

Probable cause

Horizontal stabilizer failure was a result of excessive speed and pilot induced aerodynamic overload.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 29 Dec 1985 Cessna T210L accident near West Valley, UT?

During approach to runway 34L, the right horizontal stabilizer, elevators, and wings separated in flight. Investigation found the pilot was not instrument current and the stabilizer failure resulted from excessive speed and pilot-induced aerodynamic overload.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 29 Dec 1985 involved a Cessna T210L, registration N2082S, operated by Peter O. And Biruta Macs, at West Valley, UT.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Horizontal stabilizer failure was a result of excessive speed and pilot induced aerodynamic overload.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X38389. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.