On February 11, 1994, a Cessna A185F (registration N53064) was involved in an aviation accident near Sterling Hgts, MI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S IMPAIRMENT OF JUDGMENT AND PERFORMANCE DUE TO ALCOHOL, WHICH LED TO HIS INTENTIONAL BUZZING, AND HIS FAILURE TO MAINTAIN SUFFICIENT ALTITUDE (OR CLEARANCE) FROM OBSTACLES. FACTORS RELATED TO THE ACCIDENT WERE: DARKNESS AND THE UNLIGHTED TOWER. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot and passenger were seen drinking before a flight. The aircraft flew low, turned, hit an unlighted tower, then a power line, terrain, and a house. Toxicology showed the pilot had a blood alcohol level of 0.248%.
Background
Prior to the accident, the pilot and his passenger were observed consuming alcoholic beverages at a social gathering near the flight origin.
Accident Sequence
Following the gathering, the accident airplane was seen heading north at low altitude in proximity to the building where the event was held. The pilot executed a 180-degree turn. Shortly thereafter, the airplane struck an unlighted tower. It subsequently collided with a power line, then impacted the terrain and a private residence.
Toxicology
Post-accident toxicology tests were performed on the pilot. The results revealed a blood alcohol concentration of 248 mg/dL (0.248%) and a urine alcohol concentration of 63 mg/dL (0.063%).
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 11 Feb 1994 Cessna A185F accident near Sterling Hgts, MI?
A pilot and passenger were seen drinking before a flight. The aircraft flew low, turned, hit an unlighted tower, then a power line, terrain, and a house. Toxicology showed the pilot had a blood alcohol level of 0.248%.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 11 Feb 1994 involved a Cessna A185F, registration N53064, at Sterling Hgts, MI.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
THE PILOT'S IMPAIRMENT OF JUDGMENT AND PERFORMANCE DUE TO ALCOHOL, WHICH LED TO HIS INTENTIONAL BUZZING, AND HIS FAILURE TO MAINTAIN SUFFICIENT ALTITUDE (OR CLEARANCE) FROM OBSTACLES. FACTORS RELATED TO THE ACCIDENT WERE: DARKNESS AND THE UNLIGHTED TOWER.
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