On May 26, 2000, a Cessna T210K (registration N9457M) was involved in an aviation accident near Buena Vista, CO. One person was killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's disregard of the weather forecast, and his VFR flight into IMC. Contributing factors were snow showers, fog, and the mountainous terrain. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot was briefed that VFR flight was not recommended due to mountain obscuration. The airplane was seen flying at low altitude in fog and snow. Wreckage was found two days later on a mountainside. Toxicology showed metabolites of Valium and Prozac, which are not FAA-approved for pilots on flight status.
Background
The pilot filed a flight plan and was briefed that mountain obscuration was present and that VFR flight was not recommended.
Accident Sequence
A witness driving over a mountain pass observed the airplane flying at an estimated 300 to 400 feet above ground level. The witness reported that fog and snow showers limited visibility, allowing him to follow the airplane for only a few seconds before losing sight.
Wreckage Location and Examination
Search and rescue personnel located the wreckage two days later on a heavily forested mountainside. Examination of the wreckage revealed no preimpact engine or airframe abnormalities that might have affected the airplane's performance.
Toxicology
Toxicological reports indicated that the pilot had metabolites of Valium and Prozac in his body. The FAA does not approve these prescribed medications for pilots while they are on flight status.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 26 May 2000 Cessna T210K accident near Buena Vista, CO?
A pilot was briefed that VFR flight was not recommended due to mountain obscuration. The airplane was seen flying at low altitude in fog and snow. Wreckage was found two days later on a mountainside. Toxicology showed metabolites of Valium and Prozac, which are not FAA-approved for pilots on flight status.
Were there any fatalities in the 26 May 2000 Cessna T210K accident?
The accident was fatal, resulting in 1 fatality.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 26 May 2000 involved a Cessna T210K, registration N9457M, at Buena Vista, CO.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
the pilot's disregard of the weather forecast, and his VFR flight into IMC. Contributing factors were snow showers, fog, and the mountainous terrain.
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