On June 23, 1988, a Cessna 310 (registration N170R) was involved in an aviation accident near Big Bear Lake, CA. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A recently certificated multiengine pilot stalled and spun while on base leg at Big Bear Airport after flying a slow downwind leg. Density altitude was about 8,000 feet. No preexisting malfunctions were found.
Accident Details
A pilot, recently certificated for multiengine operations, was flying with friends to Big Bear Airport for lunch. The density altitude at the airport was approximately 8,000 feet. The pilot initiated a south downwind leg for runway 07, following a Mooney 231 aircraft. Ground witnesses observed the airplane flying at a very slow speed during the downwind leg. When the airplane turned onto the base leg, it stalled and entered a spin. The aircraft subsequently crashed in a near vertical descent attitude.
Post-Crash Investigation
Examination of the wreckage revealed that the landing gear and flaps were extended. The exact amount of flap extension could not be determined. Investigators did not identify any preexisting malfunctions or failures in the airframe, engine, or systems. The investigation focused on the circumstances of the flight, including the pilot's experience level and the high density altitude conditions.