Casualties unknown

Aircraft Collides with Trees in Low Visibility Conditions (N8821V)

Monteagle, TN, US

On January 1, 2000, a Bellanca BL-17-30A (registration N8821V) was involved in an aviation accident near Monteagle, TN. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to adequately evaluate weather conditions that resulted in the continuation of visual flight into instrument weather conditions and the subsequent collision with trees. 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

An airplane struck trees after a brief flight; subsequent investigation found no mechanical issues but noted fog and low clouds obscuring the mountain top.

Flight History

The circumstances surrounding the history of the flight are unknown. The intended route of the flight was not determined. A review of the Federal Aviation Administration Flight Service system did not reveal that the pilot had obtained a pre-flight weather briefing for the intended flight.

Accident Sequence

The flight was first heard only seconds before the airplane collided with trees. Following the collision, smoke was observed in the vicinity of the accident site.

Weather Conditions

Upon arrival at the accident site, rescue personnel noted that fog and low clouds were present approximately 20 feet above the ground, and the mountain top was obscured.

Aircraft Examination

Examination of the engine and airframe did not disclose any mechanical malfunction or failure of related component assemblies.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1 Jan 2000 Bellanca BL-17-30A accident near Monteagle, TN?

An airplane struck trees after a brief flight; subsequent investigation found no mechanical issues but noted fog and low clouds obscuring the mountain top.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1 Jan 2000 involved a Bellanca BL-17-30A, registration N8821V, at Monteagle, TN.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to adequately evaluate weather conditions that resulted in the continuation of visual flight into instrument weather conditions and the subsequent collision with trees.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X20327. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.