Casualties unknown

Aircraft Encounters Clear Air Turbulence, Sustains Substantial Damage (N657D)

Scottsmoor, FL, US

On April 29, 1992, a Beech C35 (registration N657D) operated by Dennison, Danny G. was involved in an aviation accident near Scottsmoor, FL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: ENCOUNTER WITH CLEAR AIR TURBULENCE DURING CRUISE FLIGHT. 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

During cruise, an aircraft encountered clear air turbulence, resulting in substantial damage. The flight continued to its destination and landed without further incident. Three months prior, the ruddervators had been repaired and balanced; post-accident inspection found them within limits.

Incident Overview

During cruise flight, an aircraft encountered clear air turbulence, which caused substantial damage to the airframe. Despite the damage, the flight crew continued to the intended destination, where an uneventful landing was performed. No further details regarding the extent of damage or flight conditions were provided.

Maintenance History

Approximately three months prior to the incident, the aircraft's ruddervators were removed from the airframe for maintenance. They were subsequently repaired, painted, balanced according to specifications, and reinstalled. The balancing procedure was performed in accordance with the applicable Beechcraft manual.

Post-Accident Inspection

Following the accident, the ruddervators were removed and examined. The inspection determined that the balancing of each ruddervator remained within the prescribed limits as outlined in the Beechcraft manual. No further information regarding other potential causes or contributing factors was available.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X14488. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.