On August 24, 2007, a Socata TB-20 TRINIDAD (registration N96DF) was involved in an aviation accident near Cheboygan, MI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Undetermined. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An instrument-rated private pilot departed on a VFR sightseeing flight from an island airport in known low clouds. The pilot was later found in nearby straits; aircraft parts washed ashore. The aircraft and passenger remain missing.
Incident Overview
An instrument-rated private pilot departed from an airport located on an island for a visual flight rules (VFR) cross-country flight. The purpose of the flight was to observe the coastline and scenery. At the time of departure, known low clouds and marginal VFR conditions prevailed in the area.
Discovery and Recovery
Following the flight, the pilot was found in the straits near the island. Additionally, some airplane parts washed up on a mainland shore. The aircraft itself and a passenger who was on board have not been found to date. Recovery efforts have been conducted, but the whereabouts of the missing aircraft and passenger remain unknown.
Investigation
Authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances of the incident. No further details have been released regarding the cause or contributing factors. The investigation remains open pending further evidence.