On November 17, 1988, a Cessna 172N (registration N6256F) operated by Squadron Two Flying Club, Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Fremont, CA. One person was killed. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 2 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A newly certificated private pilot, emotionally disturbed about personal and employment issues, departed near midnight for a cross-country flight. After becoming disoriented, he requested radar vectors but failed to maintain control, entering a rapid descent and colliding with the ground. Toxicology showed a vitreous fluid ethanol level of 0.23 percent, and the pilot had falsified his medical application by denying traffic convictions while on probation for drunk driving.
Accident Details
A newly certificated private pilot, reportedly emotionally disturbed about his employment and personal life situation, departed near midnight for a short cross-country flight. The pilot loved flying and used it to release anxiety. During the flight, he became disoriented and requested radar vectors back to his departure airport. Controllers reported that the pilot sounded irrational and observed the aircraft failing to hold heading and altitude. The aircraft entered a rapid descent and collided with the ground, coming to rest in a near vertical nosedown pitch attitude.
Pilot Background
On his application for a medical certificate, the pilot had denied any record of traffic convictions. However, at the time of his application, he was on probation and had a history of convictions for drunk driving.
Toxicology
The toxicology report indicated that the pilot's vitreous fluid ethanol level was 0.23 percent.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 17 Nov 1988 Cessna 172N accident near Fremont, CA?
A newly certificated private pilot, emotionally disturbed about personal and employment issues, departed near midnight for a cross-country flight. After becoming disoriented, he requested radar vectors but failed to maintain control, entering a rapid descent and colliding with the ground. Toxicology showed a vitreous…
Were there any fatalities in the 17 Nov 1988 Cessna 172N accident?
The accident was fatal, resulting in 1 fatality.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 17 Nov 1988 involved a Cessna 172N, registration N6256F, operated by Squadron Two Flying Club, Inc., at Fremont, CA.