On October 26, 1990, a Piper PA-28R-200 (registration N41586) operated by Wright Flyers, Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Kingsland, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO AVOID FLYING INTO THE MOUNTAIN. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An airplane impacted a cliff face about 50 feet below a mountain crest under clear, unlimited visibility. The pilot had resigned his bank teller position and was confronted about embezzlement hours before the accident.
Accident Details
The airplane struck the face of a cliff approximately 50 feet below the crest of a mountain, which was the only notable high terrain for several miles. Weather conditions at the time were clear with unlimited visibility. The aircraft impacted in a straight and level attitude, and its elevator trim was set to a nose-down position. A witness reported that the engine sounded normal and observed nothing unusual before the impact.
Background
One week prior to the accident, the pilot had resigned from his position as a bank teller. On the morning of the accident, authorities confronted the pilot regarding the embezzlement of $6,218.16. The pilot told bank officials that he would make restitution by 1700 hours that afternoon. The accident occurred four hours later.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 26 Oct 1990 Piper PA-28R-200 accident near Kingsland, TX?
An airplane impacted a cliff face about 50 feet below a mountain crest under clear, unlimited visibility. The pilot had resigned his bank teller position and was confronted about embezzlement hours before the accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 26 Oct 1990 involved a Piper PA-28R-200, registration N41586, operated by Wright Flyers, Inc., at Kingsland, TX.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO AVOID FLYING INTO THE MOUNTAIN.
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