On December 19, 2004, a Smith, Ted Aerostar 601P (registration N60CF) was involved in an aviation accident near Wheeling, WV. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot misjudged his distance/speed, and his intentional landing on an unsuitable taxiway at night. A factor in the accident was the night light conditions. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot attempted a night landing on a closed taxiway, overran it, and struck trees. The pilot, with minor injuries, left the scene after paying a passerby for a ride. Approximately 250 kilos of cocaine were found in the airplane.
Incident Overview
A pilot attempted a night landing on a taxiway in front of the control tower, which was closed at the time. The airplane overran the end of the taxiway, rolled down an embankment, and struck trees. The pilot was believed to have sustained minor injuries.
Pilot Actions After Crash
The pilot subsequently paid a passerby to take him to a local hotel. After a night's rest, he left the area. The pilot's identity was not confirmed.
Aircraft Ownership and Cargo
Ownership of the airplane could not be determined due to a recent sale. Approximately 250 kilograms of cocaine were found onboard the airplane. Further investigation was being conducted by federal authorities and local law enforcement.
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