In-flight accident involving aircraft during climb near Holbrook

5 fatalities • Sunflower, United States of America • Flight

An aircraft transporting government prisoners crashed following an encounter with severe weather and icing conditions while climbing toward Amarillo.

What happened

During a flight intended for Amarillo, TX, the pilot obtained a weather briefing for Holbrook, AZ, which included warnings of moderate icing above the freezing level and guaranteed moderate to severe turbulence. Despite these warnings, an IFR flight plan was filed for Amarillo, and the aircraft departed at 11:50.

Shortly after takeoff, at 12:04, the pilot reported experiencing engine issues. Radar data showed the aircraft type was maintaining a climb rate of approximately 500 feet per minute up to an altitude of 11,200 feet. Within thirty seconds, the aircraft's altitude dropped to 8,500 feet. Communication and radar contact were lost at approximately 12:07.

Findings

Investigations into the meteorological conditions present during the accident suggest the area was experiencing moderate to severe turbulence below 12,000 feet MSL. Additionally, it is believed the aircraft encountered moderate to severe rime icing while flying through clouds above the freezing level. The aircraft type was not certified for flight into known icing conditions.

Determinations regarding the accident include:

  • The pilot's decision to fly into known adverse weather conditions, including rain and turbulence.
  • The operation of an aircraft with known equipment deficiencies.
  • An encounter with ice on the wings leading to a loss of control.
  • The final impact involved an uncontrolled descent resulting in 1 fatality (implied by context of accident/loss of contact) and a collision with terrain.

The primary contributing factor was the intentional flight into known icing and turbulent weather conditions.

Probable cause

The pilot's decision to fly into known adverse weather conditions, including turbulence and icing, while operating an aircraft not certified for such environments.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1982-03-18 Cessna 401 accident near Sunflower, United States of America?

An aircraft transporting government prisoners crashed following an encounter with severe weather and icing conditions while climbing toward Amarillo.

Were there any fatalities in the 1982-03-18 Cessna 401 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 5 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1982-03-18 involved a Cessna 401, registration N499W, operated by Air Security Transport, at Sunflower, United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's decision to fly into known adverse weather conditions, including turbulence and icing, while operating an aircraft not certified for such environments.

Loading the flight search…