Casualties unknown

Pilot Encounters Thunderstorm and IFR Conditions During VFR Flight Attempting Turnaround (N5280A)

Elgin, ND, US

On May 22, 1986, a Cessna T210N (registration N5280A) operated by Aero Ventures was involved in an aviation accident near Elgin, ND. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 1 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, briefed that VFR flight was not recommended, reported being in thunderstorm activity and IFR conditions while attempting to turn around. Witnesses observed the aircraft descending rapidly at a 45-degree nose-down attitude.

Incident Overview

According to the official investigation source, the pilot received a weather briefing prior to departure. During the briefing, the Flight Service Station (FSS) advised that visual flight rules (VFR) flight was not recommended. Despite this advisory, the pilot proceeded with the flight.

During the flight, the pilot made a radio call stating that he was in thunderstorm activity and encountering instrument meteorological conditions (IFR). He indicated that he was attempting to turn around to exit the adverse weather.

Weather Conditions

At the accident site, witnesses reported low clouds and heavy rain. The pilot's earlier radio communication had confirmed he was in thunderstorm activity. The weather briefing had already warned against VFR flight due to the anticipated conditions.

Witness Observations

Several witnesses observed the aircraft. They reported seeing the aircraft descending at a high rate of speed with a 45-degree nose-down attitude. No further details about the aircraft's configuration or subsequent actions were provided in the source.

Pilot Background

The pilot had a total flight time of 89 hours and did not hold an instrument rating. An instrument rating would have been required for flight in IFR conditions. No additional information about the pilot's qualifications or experience was included.

The source did not specify any further details such as aircraft type, registration, location, or outcome of the flight. The investigation did not state a probable cause.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 22 May 1986 Cessna T210N accident near Elgin, ND?

A pilot, briefed that VFR flight was not recommended, reported being in thunderstorm activity and IFR conditions while attempting to turn around. Witnesses observed the aircraft descending rapidly at a 45-degree nose-down attitude.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 22 May 1986 involved a Cessna T210N, registration N5280A, operated by Aero Ventures, at Elgin, ND.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X33523. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.