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2 fatalities

Fatal Crash During LOC DME Approach Following Procedure Turn (N2019U)

Saint Mary's, United States of AmericaLanding (descent or approach)

On February 13, 1985, a Beechcraft 90 King Air (registration N2019U) operated by Beechwoods Flying Service was involved in an aviation accident near Saint Mary's, United States of America during landing or approach. 2 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Occurrence #1: in flight collision with terrain/water Phase of operation: approach - faf/outer marker to threshold (ifr) Findings 1. (c) in-flight planning/decision - improper - pilot in command 2. (c) ifr procedure - improper - pilot in command 3. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Source recordUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft crashed during a LOC DME approach after making a procedure turn at the final approach fix. Both occupants were killed. The approach plate warned of precipitous terrain and turbulence.

Accident Overview

An aircraft crashed while conducting a LOC DME approach. According to air traffic control, the accident occurred after the aircraft executed a procedure turn at the final approach fix (FAF). The winds in the area were reported as 250° at 10 knots, gusting to 28 knots. The approach plate included a cautionary remark: 'precipitous terrain - expect turbulence'.

Occupant Fatalities

Both occupants of the aircraft were killed in the crash.

Probable Cause Findings

The official investigation identified the following findings:

  • Occurrence #1: in flight collision with terrain/water
  • Phase of operation: approach - FAF/outer marker to threshold (IFR)
  • Findings:

1. (c) In-flight planning/decision - improper - pilot in command 2. (c) IFR procedure - improper - pilot in command 3. (c) Planned approach - improper - pilot in command 4. (c) Minimum descent altitude - below - pilot in command

Controlled flight into terrain

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 13 Feb 1985 Beechcraft 90 King Air accident near Saint Mary's, United States of America?

An aircraft crashed during a LOC DME approach after making a procedure turn at the final approach fix. Both occupants were killed. The approach plate warned of precipitous terrain and turbulence.

Were there any fatalities in the 13 Feb 1985 Beechcraft 90 King Air accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 2 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 13 Feb 1985 involved a Beechcraft 90 King Air, registration N2019U, operated by Beechwoods Flying Service, at Saint Mary's, United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Occurrence #1: in flight collision with terrain/water Phase of operation: approach - faf/outer marker to threshold (ifr) Findings 1. (c) in-flight planning/decision - improper - pilot in command 2. (c) ifr procedure - improper - pilot in command 3. (c) planned approach - improper - pilot in command 4. (c) minimum…

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