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Casualties unknown

Airplane Collides with Hilly Terrain During Cross-Country Flight (N9015S)

Davenport, WA, US

On May 17, 1992, a Beech S35 (registration N9015S) was involved in an aviation accident near Davenport, WA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: POOR IN FLIGHT PLANNING/DECISION. FACTORS TO THE ACCIDENT WERE: MOUNTAINOUS/HILLY TERRAIN AND TERRAIN CLEARANCE WAS NOT MAINTAINED. 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 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During a cross-country flight, an airplane collided with a hill, continued through power lines, and was destroyed by fire. No mechanical failure was found.

Collision Sequence

During a cross-country flight, the airplane collided with hilly terrain. Impact signatures indicate that the airplane struck a hill in level flight, approximately 120 feet below the ridge line. After the initial impact, the airplane continued up the hill, then became airborne and traveled another 190 feet through power lines. The power lines separated the left wing and ruddevator. The airplane then continued over the crest, impacting the ground and sliding down the opposite side of the hill. The engine continued across a valley, impacting another hill. The remainder of the fuselage was destroyed by fire.

Post-Crash Examination

During the post-crash investigation, there was no evidence to indicate a mechanical failure or malfunction.

Controlled flight into terrain

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 17 May 1992 Beech S35 accident near Davenport, WA?

During a cross-country flight, an airplane collided with a hill, continued through power lines, and was destroyed by fire. No mechanical failure was found.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 17 May 1992 involved a Beech S35, registration N9015S, at Davenport, WA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

POOR IN FLIGHT PLANNING/DECISION. FACTORS TO THE ACCIDENT WERE: MOUNTAINOUS/HILLY TERRAIN AND TERRAIN CLEARANCE WAS NOT MAINTAINED.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X14734. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.