What happened
Prior to the flight, the student pilot and several passengers had been socializing and consuming beer while gathered at a friend's residence located near Murfreesboro, North Carolina. By approximately 0200 EDT, the group decided to go flying. Around 0300, an aircraft was observed flying over the friend's home at a low altitude before departing the area without returning.
Subsequently, the aircraft crashed near Winton, North Carolina, and sustained extensive damage during the impact. The airspeed indicator needle was found pressed against the instrument face, indicating a speed of 142 mph at the time of the crash. Additionally, the aircraft's clock had stopped at 0347. Evidence indicated that the plane was in a 22-degree dive with approximately a 30-degree right bank when it crashed.
The investigation
Examination of the wreckage revealed no preimpact failure or malfunction of any part. However, it was noted that the artificial horizon had been removed for repair prior to the flight. Toxicology tests on the pilot's blood showed an alcohol level of 90 mg% (0.090%), a cocaine level of 0.09 mg%, and a benzoylecgonine level of 0.11 mg%. The pilot had only about 3 hours of night flying time.
Findings
The pilot's decision to fly after drinking beer and using cocaine, combined with his limited night flying experience and the absence of a functional artificial horizon, were critical factors. The alcohol impairment and cocaine use significantly degraded his ability to operate the aircraft safely. The crash resulted in fatal injuries to the pilot.
Safety message
This accident highlights the extreme danger of operating an aircraft under the influence of alcohol and drugs. Even small amounts can impair judgment and motor skills, especially for pilots with limited experience. Flying without essential instruments like the artificial horizon further increases risk. Pilots must ensure they are sober and fully instrumented before any flight.