Casualties unknown

Pilot Strikes Highway Marker During Precautionary Landing After Inadvertent IMC Encounter (N9K)

Tularosa, NM, US

On December 29, 1989, a Beech 35 (registration N9K) operated by Griffin, Thomas E. was involved in an aviation accident near Tularosa, NM. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S VFR FLIGHT INTO INSTRUMENT METEOROLOGICAL CONDITIONS (IMC), AND HIS FAILURE TO SEE AND AVOID THE ROAD SIGN DURING THE PRECAUTIONARY LANDING. THE ADVERSE WEATHER WAS A REALTED FACTOR. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot unintentionally entered instrument meteorological conditions, then performed a precautionary landing on a paved road, striking a highway marker with the left wing tip.

Background

A pilot received a weather briefing prior to departure and was warned of marginal weather conditions along the planned route. Despite the advisory, the pilot proceeded with the flight.

Inadvertent IMC Encounter

During the flight, the pilot inadvertently entered instrument meteorological conditions (IMC). To manage the situation, the pilot elected to perform a precautionary landing on a paved road.

Landing and Impact

While executing the landing on the road, the pilot reported that he 'failed to see a highway marker at the edge of the pavement.' As a result, the aircraft's left wing tip struck the marker, causing damage to the wing tip.

Weather Conditions

The pilot noted that the weather in the area of the precautionary landing consisted of an overcast ceiling between 500 and 1000 feet, visibility of 4 miles, and light rain.

Damage

Damage was sustained to the left wing tip of the aircraft. No other damage or injuries were reported.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X29953. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.