1 fatality

Pilot Killed When Aircraft Strikes Mountain During Cruise (N855JA)

Orocovis, Puerto RicoFlight

On September 9, 1970, a Britten-Norman Islander (registration N855JA) operated by San Juan Air was involved in an aviation accident near Orocovis, Puerto Rico in flight. One person was killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The exact cause of the uncontrolled descent could not be determined. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

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

While cruising at low height, a pilot initiated a left turn, struck a mountain, and crashed. The aircraft was destroyed, killing the solo pilot. The cause of the uncontrolled descent was undetermined; no malfunctions found, but pilot had not slept for 27 hours.

Accident Details

The accident sequence began while the aircraft was cruising at a relatively low height. The pilot decided to initiate a left turn. As the aircraft turned, it struck a mountain and subsequently crashed. The force of the impact was sufficient to destroy the aircraft. The pilot, who was the sole occupant aboard, was killed in the crash.

Investigation Findings

Following the accident, an investigation was conducted. Investigators found no evidence of any malfunction on the aircraft. The aircraft systems were intact and no anomalies were discovered. Furthermore, it was reported that the pilot had not slept for about 27 hours prior to the flight. Despite the absence of mechanical issues and the noted sleep deprivation, the specific reason for the uncontrolled descent that led to the crash could not be determined by the investigators.

Probable Cause

The official probable cause as stated in the investigation report is: "The exact cause of the uncontrolled descent could not be determined."

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 9 Sept 1970 Britten-Norman Islander accident near Orocovis, Puerto Rico?

While cruising at low height, a pilot initiated a left turn, struck a mountain, and crashed. The aircraft was destroyed, killing the solo pilot. The cause of the uncontrolled descent was undetermined; no malfunctions found, but pilot had not slept for 27 hours.

Were there any fatalities in the 9 Sept 1970 Britten-Norman Islander accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 1 fatality.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 9 Sept 1970 involved a Britten-Norman Islander, registration N855JA, operated by San Juan Air, at Orocovis, Puerto Rico.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The exact cause of the uncontrolled descent could not be determined.