No fatalities

1980-04-25: Cessna 404 Titan (N3994C) — Private United States of America — Dade-Collier, United States of America

Dade-Collier, United States of AmericaLanding (descent or approach)

On April 25, 1980, a Cessna 404 Titan (registration N3994C) operated by Private United States of America was involved in an aviation accident near Dade-Collier, United States of America during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The aircraft struck trees during a low-altitude nighttime flight for undetermined reasons. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 1781224007Data APIEditorial standards

A twin-engine airplane crashed into trees during a nighttime flight near Dade-Collier Airport, resulting in one serious injury and the disappearance of the pilot.

What happened

During a nighttime operation in the area surrounding Dade-Collier Airport, a twin engine airplane struck a line of trees, leading to a crash. The aircraft was reportedly involved in an unauthorized flight transporting a cargo of marijuana at the time of the accident.

As the plane descended into the vegetation, the impact resulted in one serious injury sustained by a passenger on board. Following the collision, the pilot vanished from the scene and has not been located by authorities.

Findings

Investigations into the incident identified that the aircraft was operating at a low altitude during the night. The primary factor contributing to the accident was the collision with trees while flying in the vicinity of the airport.

Probable cause

The aircraft struck trees during a low-altitude nighttime flight for undetermined reasons.