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Repositioning Flight Ends in Terrain Impact, No Mechanical Anomalies Found (N55059)

MC Cordsville, IN, US

On March 12, 1998, a Piper PA-32-260 (registration N55059) was involved in an aviation accident near MC Cordsville, IN. One person was killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain airspeed and control of the airplane. Factors were his self-induced pressure. 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

During a repositioning flight, an airplane departed controlled flight and struck terrain. Post-accident examination found no pre-existing anomalies in the airframe or engine. Pilot toxicology was negative.

Overview

During a repositioning flight, the airplane departed controlled flight and impacted the terrain. The flight was part of a relocation of the aircraft. The pilot had a scheduled appointment at his office at 1300 hours, with the arrival airport located 12.2 miles from the office.

Examination Findings

A post-accident examination of the airplane and engine revealed no pre-existing anomalies. The aircraft appeared to have been in a normal condition prior to the loss of control. A post mortem examination of the pilot, along with toxicological tests on specimens, returned negative results, indicating no impairment from substances.

Pilot Information

The pilot's schedule included an appointment at his office at 1300. The distance from the destination airport to his office was 12.2 miles, suggesting the flight was intended to facilitate timely arrival for the meeting.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 12 Mar 1998 Piper PA-32-260 accident near MC Cordsville, IN?

During a repositioning flight, an airplane departed controlled flight and struck terrain. Post-accident examination found no pre-existing anomalies in the airframe or engine. Pilot toxicology was negative.

Were there any fatalities in the 12 Mar 1998 Piper PA-32-260 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 1 fatality.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 12 Mar 1998 involved a Piper PA-32-260, registration N55059, at MC Cordsville, IN.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain airspeed and control of the airplane. Factors were his self-induced pressure.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X09637. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.