FlightFinder
Check my flight
Casualties unknown

Night Crash in Snow Due to Disorientation (N7403M)

Fort Peck, MT, US

On October 27, 1988, a Cessna 175 (registration N7403M) was involved in an aviation accident near Fort Peck, MT. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain visual reference during night flight in snow, which led to spatial disorientation and loss of control. 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 2026-06-19Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot flying into heavy snow at night lost visual reference while circling for a familiar strip, resulting in a fatal crash on rising terrain.

What happened

The pilot was operating an aircraft during nighttime conditions when he encountered heavy snowfall. Seeking to avoid the deteriorating weather, he decided to return to a nearby airport where he had previous experience. While searching for the field, he identified a ranch house associated with the strip but could not locate the actual runway or landing area.

In an attempt to signal his presence or receive guidance, the pilot began circling the area in hopes that someone would illuminate the runway lights. During one of these turns, the aircraft lost control and impacted rising terrain. The right wing struck the ground first, causing the aircraft to cartwheel before coming to rest.

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain visual reference during night flight in snow, which led to spatial disorientation and loss of control.
Controlled flight into terrain

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 27 Oct 1988 Cessna 175 accident near Fort Peck, MT?

A pilot flying into heavy snow at night lost visual reference while circling for a familiar strip, resulting in a fatal crash on rising terrain.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 27 Oct 1988 involved a Cessna 175, registration N7403M, at Fort Peck, MT.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain visual reference during night flight in snow, which led to spatial disorientation and loss of control.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X27044. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.