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Casualties unknown

Winter Storm Conditions Precede Mountain Impact (N222ED)

Howard, CO, US

On March 10, 2001, a Cessna T210L (registration N222ED) was involved in an aviation accident near Howard, CO. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's continuation of a VFR flight into instrument meteorological conditions, and his subsequent failure to maintain terrain clearance. 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 cross-country flight ended when the airplane impacted mountainous terrain at approximately 8,600 feet msl during winter storm conditions with heavy snow and poor visibility.

Flight Departure and Weather

The pilot departed for a cross-country flight. No record could be found that the pilot received a preflight weather briefing or any in-flight weather advisories. A winter storm warning had been issued at 0654 from the Pueblo Regional Forecast Office (National Weather Service) for potentially heavy snow, and potential areas of blowing and drifting snow resulting in poor visibility.

Radar Tracking

A partial radar track indicated that the airplane was flying at 1,000 to 2,000 feet above ground level, with an average ground speed of 124 knots. Radar data and weather records show that the airplane flew up the Arkansas River Valley into deteriorating weather conditions.

Accident and Examination

The airplane impacted mountainous terrain at an elevation of approximately 8,600 feet mean sea level. Examination of the airframe and engine revealed no evidence of any pre-impact discrepancies.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 10 Mar 2001 Cessna T210L accident near Howard, CO?

A cross-country flight ended when the airplane impacted mountainous terrain at approximately 8,600 feet msl during winter storm conditions with heavy snow and poor visibility.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 10 Mar 2001 involved a Cessna T210L, registration N222ED, at Howard, CO.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

the pilot's continuation of a VFR flight into instrument meteorological conditions, and his subsequent failure to maintain terrain clearance. Contributing factors were his failure to obtain a preflight weather briefing, and his failure to obtain any in-flight weather advisories.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20010319X00605. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.