Cessna 180 Accident Near Townsend, Montana (N4934A)

Accident Overview and Initial Reports On January 2, 2019, at approximately 1650 mountain standard time, a Cessna 180 airplane, registration N4934A, was substantially damaged in an accident near Townsend, Montana. The aircraft was being operated as a personal flight under Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91. Both the pilot and the passenger sustained serious injuries. A witness reported seeing the airplane flying westward about 2.5 miles west of Townsend Airport (8U8) before it executed a sharp left turn over the river. The witness estimated the aircraft was 15 to 20 feet above the river and so low that it disappeared below the riverbank. Despite the low altitude, the witness stated the pilot appeared to be in control and there were no visible signs of distress. Local law enforcement received reports of a crash and broken power transmission lines crossing the Missouri River. The local utility company confirmed an electrical outage was reported around 1650.