Casualties unknown

2000-05-23: Beech 95-A55 (N711MS) — Aliceville, AL

Aliceville, AL, US

On May 23, 2000, a Beech 95-A55 (registration N711MS) was involved in an aviation accident near Aliceville, AL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot experienced a medical emergency characterized by the inability to move his left arm, leading to the loss of control of the aircraft. 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 pilot experienced a sudden medical emergency after departure, leading to the loss of radio contact and a fatal aircraft impact on private property.

What happened

Prior to departure, the pilot reported experiencing a headache and requested Tylenol. After the flight was underway, the pilot established contact with an air traffic control facility and notified the controller that he was experiencing a personal medical issue rather than an aircraft malfunction. The pilot requested vectors to the nearest airport and received direction and distance information. Following this, the pilot informed the controller that he was unable to move his left arm, after which radio communications were lost.

The aircraft subsequently impacted trees and terrain on private property while in a nose and left wing low attitude. The impact resulted in the fragmentation of the nose section, including the cockpit, and both wings. Debris from the aircraft was distributed along the wreckage path. The accident resulted in 1 fatality.

The investigation

An examination of the engines, propellers, and flight controls showed no evidence of malfunction or failure prior to the impact. An autopsy determined that the cause of death was multiple blunt trauma, with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease noted as a contributory cause.

Findings

A review of both civilian and Air National Guard medical records for the pilot indicated a history of elevated weight, blood sugar, and blood pressure during periodic physical examinations. According to the Air National Guard medical records, the pilot's high blood pressure was not being treated.

Probable cause

The pilot experienced a medical emergency characterized by the inability to move his left arm, leading to the loss of control of the aircraft.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X21057. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.