Casualties unknown

Pilot Encounters Deteriorating Weather, Makes Precautionary Landing on Highway (N80582)

Blue Ridge, GA, US

On May 22, 1988, a Globe GC-1A (registration N80582) operated by James W. Young was involved in an aviation accident near Blue Ridge, GA. 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

A pilot reported deteriorating weather conditions, attempted to return to better weather with course changes, but eventually made a precautionary landing on a highway, striking utility wires and landing hard.

Flight Events

The pilot of the airplane reported that weather conditions deteriorated during the flight. In an attempt to return to better weather, the pilot executed a 180-degree turn and other course changes. Despite these efforts, the pilot was unable to maintain visual flight rules (VFR) flight. Subsequently, the pilot chose to perform a precautionary landing on a highway.

Landing Attempt

During the landing attempt, the airplane struck utility wires, causing the aircraft to fall to the terrain below and land hard. The pilot did not elaborate on the specific circumstances of the landing beyond these details.

Weather Briefing

The pilot noted that a "favorable weather analysis" was received prior to departure. However, the pilot did not provide further details about the content of this briefing. The briefing was obtained via telephone approximately one and a half hours before the accident occurred.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 22 May 1988 Globe GC-1A accident near Blue Ridge, GA?

A pilot reported deteriorating weather conditions, attempted to return to better weather with course changes, but eventually made a precautionary landing on a highway, striking utility wires and landing hard.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 22 May 1988 involved a Globe GC-1A, registration N80582, operated by James W. Young, at Blue Ridge, GA.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X25619. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.