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4 fatalities

Aircraft Crash into the Sea During Descent to Petersburg Airport (N110RA)

Petersburg-James A. Johnson, United States of AmericaLanding (descent or approach)

On August 20, 1980, a Cessna 340 (registration N110RA) operated by Staal Leasing was involved in an aviation accident near Petersburg-James A. Johnson, United States of America during landing or approach. 4 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The exact cause of the accident could not be determined because the wreckage was not found. 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 2026-09-03Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft crashed into the sea while descending to Petersburg Airport after the pilot reported multiple problems. The tail reportedly detached, and all four occupants were presumed dead. The wreckage was not found, and the exact cause could not be determined.

Incident Overview During descent to Petersburg Airport, the pilot reported experiencing multiple problems. The aircraft subsequently crashed into the sea. The tail reportedly detached prior to the crash. All four occupants were presumed dead. The wreckage was not found. ## Investigation Findings The official investigation concluded that the exact cause of the accident could not be determined because the wreckage was not found. No further details regarding the aircraft type, registration, operator, or specific location were provided in the source material. ## Probable Cause The official findings state that the exact cause of the accident could not be determined due to the wreckage not being found.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 20 Aug 1980 Cessna 340 accident near Petersburg-James A. Johnson, United States of America?

An aircraft crashed into the sea while descending to Petersburg Airport after the pilot reported multiple problems. The tail reportedly detached, and all four occupants were presumed dead. The wreckage was not found, and the exact cause could not be determined.

Were there any fatalities in the 20 Aug 1980 Cessna 340 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 4 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 20 Aug 1980 involved a Cessna 340, registration N110RA, operated by Staal Leasing, at Petersburg-James A. Johnson, United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The exact cause of the accident could not be determined because the wreckage was not found.

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