Casualties unknown

Aircraft Strikes Trees on Mountain Ridge After VFR Flight Not Recommended Due to Weather (N6387S)

Ashland, AL, US

On March 21, 1989, a Beech F33A (registration N6387S) was involved in an aviation accident near Ashland, AL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT CONTINUED VFR FLIGHT INTO INSTRUMENT METEOROLOGICAL CONDITIONS (IMC). FACTORS RELATED TO THE ACCIDENT WERE: HIGH TERRAIN, THE ADVERSE WEATHER CONDITIONS, AND TREES. 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

During a preflight weather briefing, the pilot was advised that VFR flight was not recommended due to low ceilings and reduced visibility. The aircraft subsequently collided with trees on a mountain ridge at an elevation of about 1800 ft.

Preflight Weather Briefing

During the preflight weather briefing, the pilot was advised that VFR flight was not recommended due to low ceilings and reduced visibility.

Accident Sequence

The aircraft subsequently collided with trees on a mountain ridge at an elevation of about 1800 ft. A park ranger stated that all ridges in the vicinity of the accident site were obscured at the approximate time of the accident.

Wreckage Examination

Wreckage examination failed to indicate a system malfunction or failure. Several propeller slash marks were found on tree branches along the wreckage path.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 21 Mar 1989 Beech F33A accident near Ashland, AL?

During a preflight weather briefing, the pilot was advised that VFR flight was not recommended due to low ceilings and reduced visibility. The aircraft subsequently collided with trees on a mountain ridge at an elevation of about 1800 ft.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 21 Mar 1989 involved a Beech F33A, registration N6387S, at Ashland, AL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE PILOT CONTINUED VFR FLIGHT INTO INSTRUMENT METEOROLOGICAL CONDITIONS (IMC). FACTORS RELATED TO THE ACCIDENT WERE: HIGH TERRAIN, THE ADVERSE WEATHER CONDITIONS, AND TREES.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X27826. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.