On January 22, 1996, a Cessna T-210N (registration N6452N) was involved in an aviation accident near Gorman, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The loss of control of the aircraft in cruise flight for undetermined reasons and subsequent in-flight structural failure of the aircraft. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A VFR aircraft lost control and broke apart in flight over Los Angeles after entering a spiral descent, with wing and tail failures. Icing conditions were present.
Incident Overview
According to a replay of air traffic control radar data, a VFR aircraft was observed flying northwest bound on a straight course across the Los Angeles metropolitan area. The aircraft was not transmitting Mode C altitude information. Shortly thereafter, the aircraft entered a left-hand spiral, completing four full turns before abruptly turning right and disappearing from radar near the accident site.
Structural Failures
An investigation revealed that the right wing and left horizontal stabilizer and elevator failed in flight. The exact sequence and cause of the failures were not specified in the source.
Weather Conditions
A winter storm system was present in the area. Light to moderate rime icing was both forecast and reported in the vicinity of the accident.
What happened in the 22 Jan 1996 Cessna T-210N accident near Gorman, CA?
A VFR aircraft lost control and broke apart in flight over Los Angeles after entering a spiral descent, with wing and tail failures. Icing conditions were present.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 22 Jan 1996 involved a Cessna T-210N, registration N6452N, at Gorman, CA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The loss of control of the aircraft in cruise flight for undetermined reasons and subsequent in-flight structural failure of the aircraft.
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