Casualties unknown

Aircraft Strikes Terrain on VFR Flight in Central Montana (N2886Y)

Ryegate, MT, US

On August 28, 1999, a Cessna 182E (registration N2886Y) was involved in an aviation accident near Ryegate, MT. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's continued VFR flight into IMC conditions and his failure to maintain clearance from mountainous terrain. Factors include low ceilings and inadequate in-flight planning. 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 VFR cross-country flight from Billings to Choteau, Montana, collided with mountainous terrain near Ryegate. Weather reports indicated low ceilings and rain showers. Post-accident inspection found no mechanical issues.

Accident Overview

A VFR cross-country flight traveling from Billings, Montana, to Choteau, Montana, ended when the aircraft collided with mountainous terrain. The accident site was located approximately 25 miles northwest of Ryegate, Montana.

Weather Conditions

At the time of the accident, weather data indicated that low ceilings and rain showers were present throughout Central Montana. These conditions may have affected visibility and flight operations.

Aircraft Inspection

A post-accident inspection of the aircraft was conducted. The examination revealed no evidence of any mechanical malfunction or failure. The airframe and systems appeared to have been functioning normally prior to impact.

Flight Details

The flight was conducted under Visual Flight Rules (VFR). The route crossed central Montana through areas known for mountainous terrain. No further details about the aircraft, occupants, or time of day have been released.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 28 Aug 1999 Cessna 182E accident near Ryegate, MT?

A VFR cross-country flight from Billings to Choteau, Montana, collided with mountainous terrain near Ryegate. Weather reports indicated low ceilings and rain showers. Post-accident inspection found no mechanical issues.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 28 Aug 1999 involved a Cessna 182E, registration N2886Y, at Ryegate, MT.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's continued VFR flight into IMC conditions and his failure to maintain clearance from mountainous terrain. Factors include low ceilings and inadequate in-flight planning.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X19643. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.