Casualties unknown

Pilot Reports Disorientation During ILS Approach, Wreckage Found Next Morning (N477T)

Castle Rock, CO, US

On December 16, 1989, a Beech B35-A33 (registration N477T) was involved in an aviation accident near Castle Rock, CO. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S LOSS OF CONTROL AS A RESULT OF SPATIAL DISORIENTATION. FACTORS RELATED TO THE ACCIDENT WERE: THE ADVERSE WEATHER CONDITIONS. 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 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot who changed from VFR to IFR due to deteriorating weather acknowledged an ILS clearance but reported being 'turned around' and struggling to control the aircraft. No further contact was made, and the wreckage was found the next day.

Background

A VFR flight plan had been filed for the flight. However, while en route to Denver, the pilot changed it to an IFR flight plan upon realizing that the weather had deteriorated to instrument meteorological conditions.

Flight and Approach

During the flight, the pilot acknowledged a clearance for an ILS approach into Centennial Airport in Englewood, Colorado. While on the approach, the pilot reported that he was '...all turned around and was having trouble controlling the aircraft.' This was the last communication received from the pilot. The aircraft subsequently failed to arrive at the airport.

Search and Wreckage

A search was initiated. The aircraft wreckage was found shortly after daybreak the following morning.

Radar Information

Radar data confirmed that the pilot was flying in circles and had not established the aircraft on the intended approach course.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X29946. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.