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)Primary reportUpdated 2026-06-11Data 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