Casualties unknown

Aircraft Destroyed During Precision Approach in IFR Conditions (N81685)

Owatonna, MN, US

On June 2, 2004, a Cessna U206F (registration N81685) was involved in an aviation accident near Owatonna, MN. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain visual reference during a precision approach in instrument meteorological conditions, compounded by operating without a current flight review. 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 2026-06-19Data APIEditorial standards

An airplane was destroyed upon impact with terrain and a residential structure while conducting a precision approach under instrument meteorological conditions.

What happened

The aircraft was engaged in a precision approach when it collided with the ground and a nearby house. The accident occurred while the pilot was operating under instrument meteorological conditions (IMC). The impact resulted in the total destruction of the airplane.

The investigation

A thorough examination of the airplane's systems was conducted following the incident. Investigators found no mechanical anomalies or malfunctions that would have prevented the normal operation of the aircraft prior to the collision.

Findings

Review of the pilot's logbook records revealed a regulatory compliance issue. The pilot did not hold a current flight review at the time of the accident. This lack of currency was identified as a contributing factor in the event.

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain visual reference during a precision approach in instrument meteorological conditions, compounded by operating without a current flight review.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2 Jun 2004 Cessna U206F accident near Owatonna, MN?

An airplane was destroyed upon impact with terrain and a residential structure while conducting a precision approach under instrument meteorological conditions.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2 Jun 2004 involved a Cessna U206F, registration N81685, at Owatonna, MN.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain visual reference during a precision approach in instrument meteorological conditions, compounded by operating without a current flight review.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20040621X00840. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.