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Casualties unknown

Airplane Crashes After Departure in Low Visibility at Night (N4895K)

Savoy, IL, US

On November 13, 1994, a Cessna P210N (registration N4895K) was involved in an aviation accident near Savoy, IL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE FAILURE OF THE PILOT TO MAINTAIN A POSITIVE RATE OF CLIMB DURING THE NIGHT TAKEOFF. FACTORS RELATED TO THE ACCIDENT WERE: LACK OF VISUAL CUES, THE WEATHER CONDITIONS, AND THE DARK NIGHT. 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 airplane taking off from runway 14R entered clouds and crashed into trees near the runway end. No preexisting anomalies found. Local pilots note limited visual cues on departure during darkness and low visibility.

Incident Overview

An airplane departed from runway 14R and was observed by the local controller to enter the bases of the clouds. The aircraft subsequently crashed into trees located approximately 1/4 mile off the departure end of the runway.

Investigation Findings

Examination of the engine and airframe did not reveal any preexisting anomalies that could have contributed to the accident.

Pilot Experience and Environmental Factors

The pilot had successfully completed an instrument competency check in a fixed instrument simulator the day prior to the accident. Local pilots who regularly use the airport reported that departures from runway 14R during periods of darkness and reduced visibility provide the pilot with little or no visual cues in the initial climb attitude. They noted that there are scant sources of light once the airplane reaches the end of the runway.

Conclusion

The accident occurred shortly after takeoff when the airplane entered clouds and impacted trees. No mechanical deficiencies were identified.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 13 Nov 1994 Cessna P210N accident near Savoy, IL?

An airplane taking off from runway 14R entered clouds and crashed into trees near the runway end. No preexisting anomalies found. Local pilots note limited visual cues on departure during darkness and low visibility.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 13 Nov 1994 involved a Cessna P210N, registration N4895K, at Savoy, IL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE FAILURE OF THE PILOT TO MAINTAIN A POSITIVE RATE OF CLIMB DURING THE NIGHT TAKEOFF. FACTORS RELATED TO THE ACCIDENT WERE: LACK OF VISUAL CUES, THE WEATHER CONDITIONS, AND THE DARK NIGHT.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001206X02566. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.