Fatal aircraft accident involving tree impact

2 fatalities • Wilsonville, United States of America • Flight

An aircraft entered a vertical dive and struck a tree, resulting in the deaths of both occupants.

What happened

During the flight, observers noted the aircraft was maintaining a standard cruise attitude before it suddenly rolled into an inverted position. Following this roll, the nose of the plane pitched downward, directing the aircraft into a near-vertical descent toward the ground. As the plane approached the terrain, the nose began to level out toward a horizontal position; however, the aircraft subsequently collided with a tree measuring approximately 75 feet in height.

Findings

An investigation conducted following the crash revealed that there was no evidence of any mechanical malfunction or equipment failure contributing to the accident. The impact resulted in two fatalities.

Probable cause

The aircraft entered a vertical dive following an inverted roll, leading to a collision with a tree.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1992-12-12 Cessna 421C Golden Eagle III accident near Wilsonville, United States of America?

An aircraft entered a vertical dive and struck a tree, resulting in the deaths of both occupants.

Were there any fatalities in the 1992-12-12 Cessna 421C Golden Eagle III accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 2 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1992-12-12 involved a Cessna 421C Golden Eagle III, registration N98489, operated by Arthur B. Higgins, at Wilsonville, United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft entered a vertical dive following an inverted roll, leading to a collision with a tree.

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