Casualties unknown

1990-11-22: Beech 65-88 (N6CH) — Darrell C Nelson — Spokane, WA

Spokane, WA, US

On November 22, 1990, a Beech 65-88 (registration N6CH) operated by Darrell C Nelson was involved in an aviation accident near Spokane, WA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S MISJUDGEMENT OF HIS TOUCHDOWN DUE TO DISORIENTATION CAUSED BY HIS LACK OF FORWARD VISIBILITY CREATED BY AN ACCUMULATION OF ICE ON THE WINDSHIELD. 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 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

A Beech 65-88 pilot returned to departure airport due to severe turbulence reports. Ice accumulated on windshield during climbout, leading to disorientation while landing via side window, resulting in a hard landing that displaced both engines.

Incident Overview

The pilot of a Beech 65-88 elected to return to the departure airport after receiving reports of severe turbulence along the planned route. During the climbout from the airport, ice accumulated on the windshield, with the pilot stating that approximately 1/2 to 3/4 of an inch of ice formed on the surface.

Landing Difficulties

While attempting to land, the pilot became disoriented. To compensate for the obscured forward visibility, he relied on looking out of the side window. This limited perspective contributed to spatial confusion during the final approach.

Outcome

The landing was hard, resulting in both engines being displaced downward. The aircraft sustained structural damage from the impact.

Pilot Account

The pilot reported the ice accumulation and the disorientation experienced during the landing attempt. No further details regarding injuries or other damage were provided.

Aircraft Information

The aircraft involved was a Beech 65-88. The specific registration, operator, and other details were not disclosed in the report.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X24706. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.