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Wing Separation in Turbulence: Pilot Had Limited Single-Engine Experience (N7444E)

Coaldale, CO, US

On July 18, 1987, a Cessna 210 (registration N7444E) operated by Leonard Kenneally was involved in an aviation accident near Coaldale, CO. 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

An ATP-rated airline captain with only 140 hours in single-engine aircraft, including 20 in a Cessna 210, experienced wing separation after encountering moderate to severe turbulence. Investigators found evidence of aerodynamic overload but no pre-existing fatigue.

Accident Overview

The pilot, who held an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certificate and served as a captain on a Boeing 727, had accumulated only 140 hours in single-engine aircraft, with 20 of those hours in a Cessna 210. Moderate to severe turbulence had been forecast and reported in the accident area.

Witness Observations

Witnesses observed the aircraft descending in a nose-low attitude with a portion of the left wing missing. A 5-foot section of the left wing was found one-half mile from the main wreckage.

Postcrash Examination

Postcrash examination revealed evidence indicative of aerodynamic overload; however, no evidence existed of pre-existing fatigue or corrosion.

Weather

Related events

Same aircraft family

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 18 Jul 1987 Cessna 210 accident near Coaldale, CO?

An ATP-rated airline captain with only 140 hours in single-engine aircraft, including 20 in a Cessna 210, experienced wing separation after encountering moderate to severe turbulence. Investigators found evidence of aerodynamic overload but no pre-existing fatigue.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 18 Jul 1987 involved a Cessna 210, registration N7444E, operated by Leonard Kenneally, at Coaldale, CO.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X31458. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.