On February 22, 1979, a Cessna 421A Golden Eagle I (registration N77PM) operated by Phillip Moss & Company was involved in an aviation accident near Kansas City-Charles B. Wheeler-Downtown, United States of America during landing or approach. 3 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Collision with trees on final approach due to improper IFR operation. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
On approach to Kansas City-Charles B. Wheeler-Downtown Airport, the pilot encountered low ceiling, fog, and windshear. In zero visibility, the aircraft struck trees and crashed short of runway 19, killing all three occupants.
Accident Details
On approach to Kansas City-Charles B. Wheeler-Downtown Airport, the pilot faced severe weather conditions including low ceiling, fog, and windshear. With visibility reduced to zero, the pilot failed to recognize the aircraft's altitude was too low. The airplane struck trees and subsequently crashed in flames approximately three miles from the threshold of runway 19. The impact destroyed the aircraft and resulted in the death of all three occupants.
Probable Cause
According to the official investigation, the probable cause of the accident was a collision with trees on final approach due to improper instrument flight rules (IFR) operation. Contributing factors reported were low ceiling, fog, windshear, and zero visibility.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 22 Feb 1979 Cessna 421A Golden Eagle I accident near Kansas City-Charles B. Wheeler-Downtown, United States of America?
On approach to Kansas City-Charles B. Wheeler-Downtown Airport, the pilot encountered low ceiling, fog, and windshear. In zero visibility, the aircraft struck trees and crashed short of runway 19, killing all three occupants.
Were there any fatalities in the 22 Feb 1979 Cessna 421A Golden Eagle I accident?
The accident was fatal, resulting in 3 fatalities.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 22 Feb 1979 involved a Cessna 421A Golden Eagle I, registration N77PM, operated by Phillip Moss & Company, at Kansas City-Charles B. Wheeler-Downtown, United States of America.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
Collision with trees on final approach due to improper IFR operation.