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Casualties unknown

Private Pilot Encounters Downdraft on Final Approach (N3655Y)

Leander, TX, US

On October 5, 1991, a Cessna 210C (registration N3655Y) operated by Charles W. Butler was involved in an aviation accident near Leander, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's decision to continue the flight despite adverse weather forecasts, which led to encountering a downdraft during final approach in a confined area with limited clearance. 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 2026-06-19Data APIEditorial standards

A private pilot received weather warnings for thunderstorms and turbulence but continued the flight. A downdraft forced the aircraft into trees during final approach to a short runway.

What happened

A private pilot obtained a preflight weather briefing from the local Flight Service Station (FSS). The briefing explicitly warned of potential area thunderstorms, turbulence, high winds, and hail for the intended route. Despite these hazardous conditions, the pilot elected to proceed with the planned personal flight.

During the approach phase, the aircraft was on final approach to a runway measuring only 2,200 feet in length. The airfield was surrounded by trees approximately 35 feet high. While maneuvering for landing, the pilot encountered a significant downdraft. This sudden loss of lift forced the airplane downward, resulting in an impact with the surrounding trees.

The investigation

The investigation focused on the sequence of events leading to the collision. Evidence confirmed that the aircraft was on final approach when it struck the tree line. The short runway length and surrounding terrain were noted as critical environmental factors during the landing phase.

Probable cause

The pilot's decision to continue the flight despite adverse weather forecasts, which led to encountering a downdraft during final approach in a confined area with limited clearance.
Weather

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 5 Oct 1991 Cessna 210C accident near Leander, TX?

A private pilot received weather warnings for thunderstorms and turbulence but continued the flight. A downdraft forced the aircraft into trees during final approach to a short runway.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 5 Oct 1991 involved a Cessna 210C, registration N3655Y, operated by Charles W. Butler, at Leander, TX.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's decision to continue the flight despite adverse weather forecasts, which led to encountering a downdraft during final approach in a confined area with limited clearance.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X18298. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.