On November 11, 1970, a Cessna 421A Golden Eagle I (registration N3155K) operated by Narco Scientific was involved in an aviation accident near Bath, United States of America in flight. 2 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Improper IFR operation on part of the pilot who diverted attention from operation of aircraft. The following factors were reported: - The pilot-in-command failed to follow the approved procedures, - Low ceiling and fog, - VFR day only, - Descended below MDA… This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
A crew on an FAA autopilot certification test flight crashed in fog near Bath, Alaska, after striking trees while cruising at insufficient altitude. Both occupants were killed and the aircraft destroyed.
Accident
The crew departed Ambler Airport for a local FAA autopilot certification test flight. After conducting circuits over the region, the crew was returning to Ambler when they encountered foggy conditions. While cruising at an insufficient altitude, the airplane struck trees and crashed in flames in a wooded area located in Bath, approximately 40 miles north of Ambler. The aircraft was destroyed by impact forces and a post-crash fire, and both occupants were killed.
Probable Cause
Official investigation determined the probable cause of the accident to be improper IFR operation on the part of the pilot, who diverted attention from the operation of the aircraft. The following factors were reported:
The pilot-in-command failed to follow approved procedures.
Low ceiling and fog.
VFR day only.
The pilot descended below the MDA during a VOR approach.
No aircraft, engine, or system malfunction was found.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 11 Nov 1970 Cessna 421A Golden Eagle I accident near Bath, United States of America?
A crew on an FAA autopilot certification test flight crashed in fog near Bath, Alaska, after striking trees while cruising at insufficient altitude. Both occupants were killed and the aircraft destroyed.
Were there any fatalities in the 11 Nov 1970 Cessna 421A Golden Eagle I accident?
The accident was fatal, resulting in 2 fatalities.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 11 Nov 1970 involved a Cessna 421A Golden Eagle I, registration N3155K, operated by Narco Scientific, at Bath, United States of America.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
Improper IFR operation on part of the pilot who diverted attention from operation of aircraft. The following factors were reported: - The pilot-in-command failed to follow the approved procedures, - Low ceiling and fog, - VFR day only, - Descended below MDA during a VOR approach, - No aircraft, engine or system…
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