2 fatalities

Fatal crash of a light aircraft near Amston during a test flight

Amston, United States of AmericaFlight

On January 10, 1930, a Fairchild 71 operated by Fairchild Aircraft Corporation was involved in an aviation accident near Amston, United States of America in flight. 2 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Collision with terrain and trees while flying at low altitude in reduced visibility caused by fog. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 3 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 2026-08-04Data APIEditorial standards

A local test flight from Farmingdale-Republic Airport ended in a fatal accident when the aircraft struck trees in foggy conditions near Amston, killing both occupants.

What happened

The crew initiated a local test flight departing from Farmingdale-Republic Airport during the morning hours. While operating at low altitude under reduced visibility caused by fog, the aircraft impacted trees and crashed into a wooded area situated near Amston. The wreckage remained undiscovered for five days before being located. Both individuals on board were killed in the incident.

Findings

The accident occurred during a test flight phase at low height. Contributing factors included reduced visibility due to foggy conditions, which likely hindered the crew's ability to avoid terrain obstacles such as trees.

Probable cause

Collision with terrain and trees while flying at low altitude in reduced visibility caused by fog.