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Severe Downdraft During IFR Climb Causes Structural Damage (N4640Q)

Lake Providence, LA, US

On October 9, 1990, a Cessna T210L (registration N4640Q) operated by Dick Bourland was involved in an aviation accident near Lake Providence, LA. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S DECISION TO ENTER AN AREA OF FORECAST THRUNDERSTORMS. THE FACTOR WAS THE SEVERE DOWNDRAFT ENCOUNTERED. 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

A pilot on an IFR cross-country flight into forecast icing, thunderstorms, and severe turbulence experienced a severe downdraft at 15,500 feet, causing structural damage, and performed a precautionary landing.

Incident Details

A pilot conducting an Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) cross-country flight encountered adverse weather conditions that had been forecast. While climbing through 15,500 feet, the airplane experienced a severe downdraft. The event resulted in structural damage to the aircraft.

Weather Briefing

Prior to departure, the pilot received a complete weather briefing. The briefing identified the presence of icing, thunderstorms, and associated severe turbulence along the planned route. Despite this information, the pilot proceeded with the flight.

Outcome

After sustaining structural damage, the pilot executed a precautionary landing. The landing was accomplished without further incident. No injuries or fatalities are referenced in the report. The aircraft was not destroyed; only structural damage is noted.

Weather

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 9 Oct 1990 Cessna T210L accident near Lake Providence, LA?

A pilot on an IFR cross-country flight into forecast icing, thunderstorms, and severe turbulence experienced a severe downdraft at 15,500 feet, causing structural damage, and performed a precautionary landing.

Were there any fatalities in the 9 Oct 1990 Cessna T210L accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 9 Oct 1990 involved a Cessna T210L, registration N4640Q, operated by Dick Bourland, at Lake Providence, LA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE PILOT'S DECISION TO ENTER AN AREA OF FORECAST THRUNDERSTORMS. THE FACTOR WAS THE SEVERE DOWNDRAFT ENCOUNTERED.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X24467. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.