2 fatalities

Aircraft Lost During Night Flight from Bellingham to Eliza Island (N3106R)

Missing, WA, US

On August 17, 1993, a Cessna 182L (registration N3106R) operated by Davis, James, O. was involved in an aviation accident near Missing, WA. 2 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: UNDETERMINED. 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

An aircraft departed Bellingham at night under variable weather conditions with a passenger and construction equipment. Witnesses on Eliza Island saw lights descend rapidly and extinguish. No major wreckage recovered; damage and injuries presumed.

Flight History and Weather Briefing

Before the flight from Portland, Oregon, to Bellingham, Washington, the pilot obtained a weather briefing. Visual flight rules (VFR) flight was not recommended due to conditions. The aircraft subsequently completed several trips between Bellingham and Eliza Island, located approximately ten miles to the south.

Last Flight

The aircraft departed Bellingham at 2128 hours during dark night and variable meteorological conditions. It was carrying construction equipment and a passenger on its last known flight.

Witness Observations

Witnesses on Eliza Island reported observing the lights of an aircraft at 2149 hours. According to their accounts, the lights were seen to descend rapidly and then extinguish.

Wreckage and Presumed Damage

No major identifying wreckage was recovered. The aircraft damage and injury classification above are presumed.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 17 Aug 1993 Cessna 182L accident near Missing, WA?

An aircraft departed Bellingham at night under variable weather conditions with a passenger and construction equipment. Witnesses on Eliza Island saw lights descend rapidly and extinguish. No major wreckage recovered; damage and injuries presumed.

Were there any fatalities in the 17 Aug 1993 Cessna 182L accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 2 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 17 Aug 1993 involved a Cessna 182L, registration N3106R, operated by Davis, James, O., at Missing, WA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

UNDETERMINED.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X13259. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.