On December 23, 1991, a Piper PA-34-200T (registration N47506) operated by Trans Air Direct Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Rainbow Lake, FL. 2 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT IN COMMAND'S IMPROPER INFLIGHT DECISION TO DIVERT HER ATTENTION TO OTHER ACTIVITIES NOT RELATED TO THE CONDUCT OF THE FLIGHT. CONTRIBUTING TO THE ACCIDENT WAS THE EXCEEDING OF THE DESIGN LIMITS OF THE AIRPLANE LEADING TO A WING FAILURE. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A private pilot and a pilot-rated passenger were practicing simulated instrument flight when witnesses observed the airplane's right wing fail in a dive, leading to a crash. Examination revealed both occupants were partially clothed, the front right seat fully reclined, and no evidence of seatbelt or harness use.
Accident Overview
A private pilot and a pilot-rated passenger were engaged in a flight to practice simulated instrument conditions. The purpose of the flight was to conduct instrument training under simulated conditions.
Witness Observations
According to witnesses, the airplane entered a dive during the flight. The right wing was observed to fail while the aircraft was in this dive, after which the airplane crashed.
Post-Crash Examination
Examination of the wreckage and the bodies of the two occupants revealed that both individuals were partially clothed. The front right seat was found in the full aft reclining position. Neither body showed evidence that seatbelts or shoulder harnesses were being worn at the time of the accident. Additionally, examination of the clothing worn by the occupants found no evidence of ripping or distress to the zippers and belts, indicating that the clothing had not been subjected to forces that would typically cause such damage.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 23 Dec 1991 Piper PA-34-200T accident near Rainbow Lake, FL?
A private pilot and a pilot-rated passenger were practicing simulated instrument flight when witnesses observed the airplane's right wing fail in a dive, leading to a crash. Examination revealed both occupants were partially clothed, the front right seat fully reclined, and no evidence of seatbelt or harness use.
Were there any fatalities in the 23 Dec 1991 Piper PA-34-200T accident?
The accident was fatal, resulting in 2 fatalities.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 23 Dec 1991 involved a Piper PA-34-200T, registration N47506, operated by Trans Air Direct Inc., at Rainbow Lake, FL.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
THE PILOT IN COMMAND'S IMPROPER INFLIGHT DECISION TO DIVERT HER ATTENTION TO OTHER ACTIVITIES NOT RELATED TO THE CONDUCT OF THE FLIGHT. CONTRIBUTING TO THE ACCIDENT WAS THE EXCEEDING OF THE DESIGN LIMITS OF THE AIRPLANE LEADING TO A WING FAILURE.
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