What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1991-10-18 involved a Cessna 172N, registration N733QL, operated by Corporate Air, at Columbus, MT.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE PILOT IN COMMAND'S OPERATION AT TOO LOW AN ALTITUDE OVER THE RIVER AND HIS FAILURE TO MAINTAIN ADEQUATE CLEARANCE FROM THE POWER LINES. FACTORS CONTRIBUTING TO THE ACCIDENT WERE THE WIRES CROSSING THE RIVER AND THE PILOT IN COMMAND'S POOR JUDGEMENT IN CHOOSING TO OPERATE AT LOW ALTITUDES ALONG HIS ROUTE OF FLIGHT.

Cessna 172N Strikes Power Lines and Impacts Yellowstone River (N733QL)

On October 18, 1991, a Cessna 172N (registration N733QL) operated by Corporate Air was involved in an aviation accident near Columbus, MT. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT IN COMMAND'S OPERATION AT TOO LOW AN ALTITUDE OVER THE RIVER AND HIS FAILURE TO MAINTAIN ADEQUATE CLEARANCE FROM THE POWER LINES. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 16 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 1781061362Data API Editorial standards

A Cessna 172N with three occupants departed Billings, Montana, on a local VFR flight. Witnesses observed the aircraft at treetop level before it impacted the Yellowstone River, with evidence of a power line strike.

Accident Overview

A Cessna 172N, carrying the pilot and two passengers, departed Billings, Montana, at 1421 for a local VFR flight. Shortly after departure, multiple witnesses observed the aircraft operating at treetop level, heading westbound near the Yellowstone River.

Witness Observations

One witness reported seeing the aircraft impact the water. The aircraft was observed flying at treetop height in the vicinity of the river before the impact.

Examination Findings

On-site examination of the aircraft revealed impact marks along the leading edge of the vertical stabilizer. These marks were consistent with a wire strike. Additionally, power lines suspended 40 feet above the surface of the river exhibited impact-related damage at a location near where the aircraft struck the water.

1991-10-18: Cessna 172N (N733QL) — Corporate Air — Columbus, MT

Accident Overview

Witness Observations

Examination Findings

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Accident Overview

Witness Observations

Examination Findings

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Same operator

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