2 fatalities

1977-09-23: Beechcraft 90 King Air (N23796) — Drives Inc. — Pontiac, United States of America

Pontiac, United States of AmericaFlight

On September 23, 1977, a Beechcraft 90 King Air (registration N23796) operated by Drives Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Pontiac, United States of America in flight. 2 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Airframe failure in flight and uncontrolled descent for undetermined reasons. The following findings were reported: - Overload failure, - Separation in flight, - Rudder, horizontal stabilizers, elevators, outboard section of left wing separated in flight. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 1781227536Data APIEditorial standards

An airplane experienced an in-flight breakup and crashed after going out of control at 21,000 feet, resulting in the destruction of the aircraft and fatal injuries to both occupants.

Incident Overview

While cruising at an altitude of 21,000 feet in marginal weather conditions, the airplane went out of control, spiraled to the ground, and crashed in a field. The aircraft was totally destroyed and both occupants were killed.

Investigation Findings

Official investigation findings reported multiple structural failures, including an overload failure and separation in flight. Specifically, the rudder, horizontal stabilizers, elevators, and the outboard section of the left wing separated from the aircraft in flight.

Probable Cause

The probable cause of the accident, as determined by the official investigation, was an airframe failure in flight and an uncontrolled descent for undetermined reasons.