In-flight breakup of aircraft descending toward Boeing Field

Casualties unknown • Ravensdale, WA, US

An aircraft experienced an in-flight breakup while descending toward Boeing Field, Seattle, after exceeding its maximum operating speed.

What happened

While descending from 6,000 feet MSL, the pilot canceled IFR flight rules and received clearance for a VFR approach to Boeing Field, Seattle. During the descent, radio and radar contact was lost at 2,600 feet MSL. The wreckage was subsequently located 14.8 miles from the destination airport.

The investigation

An examination of the wreckage revealed that both wings and the stabilator had separated in flight. A performance study determined that the in-flight breakup occurred at 5,100 feet during a descent at 205 knots IAS. This speed exceeded the aircraft's VNE, which is 195 knots IAS. Additionally, the investigation found that the aft center of gravity (CG) was exceeded by 1.68 inches.

Findings

The aircraft was operating at a speed of 205 knots IAS, which is above the maximum allowable velocity (VNE) of 195 knots IAS.
The aircraft's aft center of gravity was out of limits by 1.68 inches.

Probable cause

The in-flight breakup was caused by the aircraft exceeding its maximum operating speed (VNE) and an aft center of gravity that exceeded allowable limits.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1991-05-07 Piper PA-34-200T accident near Ravensdale, WA?

An aircraft experienced an in-flight breakup while descending toward Boeing Field, Seattle, after exceeding its maximum operating speed.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1991-05-07 involved a Piper PA-34-200T, registration N2859M, operated by Airpac Airlines, Inc., at Ravensdale, WA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The in-flight breakup was caused by the aircraft exceeding its maximum operating speed (VNE) and an aft center of gravity that exceeded allowable limits.

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