2 fatalities

Twin-Engine Airplane Strikes Trees During Low Pass, Both Occupants Killed (N80FA)

Clewiston, United States of AmericaFlight

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).

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary report: the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive (1962-1981)Updated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards
Aircraft registered N80FA
Aircraft registered N80FA. Photo: Richard Vandervord / CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

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.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 11 Feb 1978 Beechcraft D18 accident near Clewiston, United States of America?

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.

Were there any fatalities in the 11 Feb 1978 Beechcraft D18 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 2 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 11 Feb 1978 involved a Beechcraft D18, registration N80FA, operated by C & M Aircraft Parts & Salvage Company, at Clewiston, United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Collision with trees during a low pass after the pilot misjudged altitude and clearance.