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Aircraft Wreckage Found Nine Months After Disappearance in Mountain Area (N2569G)

Rancho Cucamong, CA, US

On December 31, 1994, a Cessna 182B (registration N2569G) was involved in an aviation accident near Rancho Cucamong, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the failure of the pilot to maintain adequate altitude above mountainous terrain. 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

A pilot was observed flying low over a ski resort before the aircraft vanished. Search efforts were hampered by weather. The wreckage was discovered nine months later on a steep ridge at 6,480 feet.

Incident Overview

A pilot was observed flying at a low altitude over a mountain ski resort. The aircraft subsequently failed to arrive at its destination and was reported missing. Search and rescue operations were launched but were thwarted by adverse weather and mountain obscuration, lasting for 4 days.

Wreckage Discovery

Despite the initial search efforts, the wreckage was not found until 9 months after the disappearance. It was located on the side of a steep ridge at 6,480 feet MSL, in a mountainous region.

Examination Findings

The wreckage exhibited extensive impact damage to the nose, leading edges of the wings, and landing gear fairings. Control continuity was established.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 31 Dec 1994 Cessna 182B accident near Rancho Cucamong, CA?

A pilot was observed flying low over a ski resort before the aircraft vanished. Search efforts were hampered by weather. The wreckage was discovered nine months later on a steep ridge at 6,480 feet.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 31 Dec 1994 involved a Cessna 182B, registration N2569G, at Rancho Cucamong, CA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

the failure of the pilot to maintain adequate altitude above mountainous terrain.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001206X02739. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.