Casualties unknown

1997-02-01: Beech 95-B55 (N70F) — Monroe, NC

Monroe, NC, US

On February 1, 1997, a Beech 95-B55 (registration N70F) was involved in an aviation accident near Monroe, NC. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: pilot incapacitation as result of Ischemic heart disease. 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 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

A passenger took control of an airplane and landed after the pilot complained of tingling and chest pressure, striking a pole with the right wing. Autopsy revealed ischemic heart disease as cause of the pilot's death.

Incident Overview

A passenger reported that before the flight, the pilot complained of not feeling well. During the flight, the pilot's condition worsened, with the pilot stating he experienced tingling in his fingers and pressure on his chest. Witnesses observed the airplane on final approach, flying erratically at an altitude of about 50 to 100 feet above the ground and heading toward buildings and hangars. The pilot became too ill to continue flying, and the passenger assumed control of the airplane. The passenger successfully landed without striking any buildings, but the right wing struck a pole.

Medical Findings

An autopsy was performed on the pilot. According to the Autopsy Report, the pathological diagnoses included ischemic heart disease (coronary atherosclerosis, focal, severe) and pulmonary congestion with focal hemorrhage. The cause of death was determined to be ischemic heart disease.

Investigation

The investigation focused on the pilot's medical condition during the flight. No further information regarding the aircraft, flight details, or environmental conditions was provided in the source.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X07434. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.