What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1994-12-30 involved a Cessna 310Q, registration N30LC, at St. Augustine, FL.

Private Pilot Collides with Terrain After Departing into Instrument Conditions (N30LC)

On December 30, 1994, a Cessna 310Q (registration N30LC) was involved in an aviation accident near St. Augustine, FL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The private pilot departed from St. Augustine, Florida, into known instrument meteorological conditions, resulting in a collision with terrain. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

A private pilot collided with terrain after departing St. Augustine, Florida, into known instrument meteorological conditions. The pilot was not instrument rated. Weather at the time included a 500-foot ceiling and five-mile visibility.

Accident Overview

The airplane collided with terrain after the private pilot departed from St. Augustine, Florida, into known instrument meteorological conditions. The pilot was not instrument rated.

Weather Conditions

At 1845, the St. Augustine Automated Weather Observation System (AWOS) recorded a ceiling of 500 feet and visibility of five miles.

Witness Observations

Witnesses observed the airplane depart to the north, then turn right. Shortly afterward, impact sounds were heard.

Engine Examination

An examination of the engines revealed that they exhibited no operational abnormalities.

Weather Briefing

The pilot obtained a weather briefing from the Gainesville Automated Flight Service Station and was informed that flight conducted under visual flight rules was not recommended.

Probable cause

The private pilot departed from St. Augustine, Florida, into known instrument meteorological conditions, resulting in a collision with terrain.

1994-12-30: Cessna 310Q (N30LC) — St. Augustine, FL