On September 2, 1981, a Mitsubishi MU-2 Marquise (registration N233MA) operated by Brigadier Industries was involved in an aviation accident near McLeod, United States of America in flight. 5 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Stall and rapid descent due to improper in-flight decisions. Contributing factors: Airframe ice, the pilot failed to maintain flying speed, incorrect weather briefing, icing conditions including sleet, freezing rain. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
While climbing from 21,000 to 23,000 feet, the airplane's speed dropped 53 knots, entered a rapid descent, and spun into a field. All five occupants were killed. Investigation cited stall and improper decisions, with contributing factors including airframe ice and pilot failure to maintain flying speed.
Incident Summary
At an altitude of 21,000 feet, the pilot received clearance to climb to 23,000 feet. During the climb, the airplane's speed dropped by approximately 53 knots. Subsequently, the airplane entered a rapid descent and was observed spinning until it crashed in a field. All five occupants were killed.
Investigation Findings
The official investigation determined that the probable cause of the accident was a stall and rapid descent due to improper in-flight decisions. Several contributing factors were identified. These included airframe ice, the pilot's failure to maintain flying speed, an incorrect weather briefing, and icing conditions that involved sleet and freezing rain.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 2 Sept 1981 Mitsubishi MU-2 Marquise accident near McLeod, United States of America?
While climbing from 21,000 to 23,000 feet, the airplane's speed dropped 53 knots, entered a rapid descent, and spun into a field. All five occupants were killed. Investigation cited stall and improper decisions, with contributing factors including airframe ice and pilot failure to maintain flying speed.
Were there any fatalities in the 2 Sept 1981 Mitsubishi MU-2 Marquise accident?
The accident was fatal, resulting in 5 fatalities.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 2 Sept 1981 involved a Mitsubishi MU-2 Marquise, registration N233MA, operated by Brigadier Industries, at McLeod, United States of America.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
Stall and rapid descent due to improper in-flight decisions. Contributing factors: Airframe ice, the pilot failed to maintain flying speed, incorrect weather briefing, icing conditions including sleet, freezing rain.