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Aircraft lands safely after encountering severe turbulence (N56542)

Fort Benton, MT, US

On May 9, 1993, a Piper PA-36 (registration N56542) operated by Fultz, Wilbur R. was involved in an aviation accident near Fort Benton, MT. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain altitude while flying under a squall line. 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

The pilot maintained control during a squall line encounter, executing a safe landing in an open field despite severe downdrafts and loss of altitude.

What happened

During the return leg of an aerial application mission, the aircraft was operating at a low altitude of approximately 300 feet above ground level. While cruising, the flight crew encountered a squall line, resulting in exposure to severe turbulence and significant downdrafts. The intensity of the atmospheric conditions caused the pilot to lose altitude control, with the aircraft descending rapidly to approximately 20 feet AGL.

Upon recognizing the situation, the pilot reduced engine power and executed a landing in an open field. During the subsequent ground roll, the nose of the aircraft pitched down before the airplane eventually slid to a complete stop. No further damage or injuries were reported from this sequence of events.

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain altitude while flying under a squall line.
Weather

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 9 May 1993 Piper PA-36 accident near Fort Benton, MT?

The pilot maintained control during a squall line encounter, executing a safe landing in an open field despite severe downdrafts and loss of altitude.

Were there any fatalities in the 9 May 1993 Piper PA-36 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 9 May 1993 involved a Piper PA-36, registration N56542, operated by Fultz, Wilbur R., at Fort Benton, MT.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain altitude while flying under a squall line.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X12473. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.