Casualties unknown

Non-Instrument-Rated Pilot Attempts IMC Flight During Cross-Country Trip (N887R)

Dalhart, TX, US

On August 13, 1991, a Beech 35-C33 (registration N887R) operated by Sky Riders was involved in an aviation accident near Dalhart, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S FLIGHT INTO KNOWN ADVERSE WEATHER. FACTORS WERE THE PILOT'S LACK OF INSTRUMENT EXPERIENCE AND EXISTING WEATHER CONDITIONS. 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 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

A non-instrument-rated private pilot attempted to fly into IMC during a day cross-country flight. Despite five weather advisories, the aircraft descended to 60 feet and rolled inverted during a visual approach, impacting the ground.

Flight Details

On a day cross-country flight, a non-instrument-rated private pilot operated an aircraft under a contract with a local municipality to transport passengers on a business trip. The pilot did not file a flight plan.

Weather Conditions

The pilot was advised on at least five occasions that the weather along the route was instrument meteorological conditions (IMC), characterized by low ceilings, fog, and rain. Despite this, the pilot attempted to fly into IMC.

Accident Sequence

Forced to a low altitude due to adverse weather, the aircraft was observed flying at heights of 60 feet above the ground, in and out of clouds. During a visual approach to the airport, the airplane rolled left to an inverted position and subsequently impacted the ground.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X17859. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.