Casualties unknown

2001-02-14: Cessna 421 (N5AY) — Munford, AL

Munford, AL, US

On February 14, 2001, a Cessna 421 (registration N5AY) was involved in an aviation accident near Munford, AL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot continued visual flight into instrument weather conditions that resulted in the inflight collision with a river bank. Factors were reduced visibility and dark night. 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

Pilot canceled IFR, reported being below weather, then struck a river bank while maneuvering for a visual approach. Low clouds, reduced visibility, and fog were present at the destination.

Accident Description

The accident occurred during the final phase of a flight that was initially conducted under instrument flight rules (IFR). The pilot and passengers were returning home. After the controller cleared the flight for an instrument approach, the pilot canceled the IFR flight plan and informed the controller that the aircraft was below the weather. Subsequently, while maneuvering for a visual approach, the airplane collided with a river bank.

Flight and Weather Conditions

At the time of the accident, the destination airport was experiencing low clouds, reduced visibility, and fog. These conditions were present when the pilot canceled the instrument flight plan and attempted the visual approach.

Post-Crash Examination

Following the accident, an examination of the airplane was conducted. The examination did not reveal any mechanical issues with the aircraft. No further details about the examination were provided.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20010221X00474. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.