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Twin-Engine Airplane Collides with Field During Night Approach to Oxnard Airport (N14AC)

Camarillo, United States of AmericaLanding (descent or approach)

On October 24, 1981, a Cessna 421B Golden Eagle II (registration N14AC) operated by Pac Exec Charter was involved in an aviation accident near Camarillo, United States of America during landing or approach. One person was killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Controlled collision with ground due to improper IFR operation. The following contributing factors were reported: - The pilot failed to maintain flying speed, - The pilot misused or failed to use flaps, - Low ceiling, - Fog, - Visibility down to zero. 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 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A twin-engine airplane on night approach to Oxnard Airport descended below the minimum descent altitude and struck a plowed field six miles east, destroying the aircraft and killing the sole pilot. Official findings cite controlled flight into terrain due to improper IFR operation.

Accident Overview

During a night approach to Oxnard Airport, a twin-engine airplane descended below the minimum descent altitude (MDA) and collided with a plowed field located six miles east of the airport. The aircraft was destroyed, and the pilot, who was the sole occupant, was killed.

Investigation Findings

The official investigation determined the probable cause to be a controlled collision with ground due to improper IFR operation. The following contributing factors were reported:

  • The pilot failed to maintain flying speed.
  • The pilot misused or failed to use flaps.
  • Low ceiling.
  • Fog.
  • Visibility down to zero.

Additional Details

The accident occurred during nighttime conditions. The aircraft was a twin-engine airplane. The approach was to Oxnard Airport, and the collision site was a plowed field approximately six miles east of the airport. No other information was provided regarding the specific aircraft type, registration, or other details.

Controlled flight into terrain

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 24 Oct 1981 Cessna 421B Golden Eagle II accident near Camarillo, United States of America?

A twin-engine airplane on night approach to Oxnard Airport descended below the minimum descent altitude and struck a plowed field six miles east, destroying the aircraft and killing the sole pilot. Official findings cite controlled flight into terrain due to improper IFR operation.

Were there any fatalities in the 24 Oct 1981 Cessna 421B Golden Eagle II accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 1 fatality.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 24 Oct 1981 involved a Cessna 421B Golden Eagle II, registration N14AC, operated by Pac Exec Charter, at Camarillo, United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Controlled collision with ground due to improper IFR operation. The following contributing factors were reported: - The pilot failed to maintain flying speed, - The pilot misused or failed to use flaps, - Low ceiling, - Fog, - Visibility down to zero.

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