On February 11, 1978, a Beechcraft D18 (registration N80FA) operated by C & M Aircraft Parts & Salvage Company was involved in an aviation accident near Clewiston, United States of America in flight. 2 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Collision with trees during a low pass after the pilot misjudged altitude and clearance. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
A twin-engine airplane struck trees and crashed while completing a low pass. The aircraft was destroyed, resulting in the deaths of both occupants. Investigators cited the pilot's misjudgment of altitude and clearance.
Incident Summary
A twin-engine airplane crashed after striking trees during a low pass. The aircraft was destroyed upon impact, and both occupants sustained fatal injuries. The accident occurred while the pilot was performing a low-level maneuver, according to the official investigation.
Investigation Findings
Officials determined that the probable cause of the accident was a collision with trees during a low pass after the pilot misjudged altitude and clearance. Contributing factors included unwarranted low flying, high obstructions, and a forced landing off airport on land. Additionally, a bale of marijuana was found along the flight path in an open field.
Aftermath
The aircraft was completely destroyed, and both occupants were killed. No further details about the flight's origin or purpose have been released.
