On November 18, 1981, a Mitsubishi MU-2 Marquise (registration N444AR) operated by Aldora Corporation was involved in an aviation accident near Wolcott, United States of America during landing or approach. 7 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Controlled flight into terrain due to improper IFR operation. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
An aircraft on descent to Eagle County Airport struck a mountain slope near Wolcott, Colorado, in dark night and overcast conditions. The crew failed to recognize low altitude. All seven occupants were killed.
Accident Overview
The flight from Shreveport was uneventful until the crew began their descent to Eagle County Airport in Colorado. The night was dark with an overcast ceiling. During the descent, the crew failed to realize that their altitude was too low. The airplane subsequently struck the slope of a mountain and crashed near Wolcott, approximately 13 miles northeast of Eagle County Airport. The impact destroyed the airplane, and all seven occupants were killed.
Investigation Findings
The official investigation determined that the probable cause of the accident was controlled flight into terrain due to improper IFR operation. The crew's failure to maintain situational awareness regarding their altitude led to the aircraft contacting the mountain slope while under instrument flight rules. The terrain in the area near Wolcott presented a hazard that was not adequately avoided during the descent. The accident highlights the importance of proper IFR procedures and altitude monitoring, though no further analysis or recommendations are provided by the source.
What happened in the 18 Nov 1981 Mitsubishi MU-2 Marquise accident near Wolcott, United States of America?
An aircraft on descent to Eagle County Airport struck a mountain slope near Wolcott, Colorado, in dark night and overcast conditions. The crew failed to recognize low altitude. All seven occupants were killed.
Were there any fatalities in the 18 Nov 1981 Mitsubishi MU-2 Marquise accident?
The accident was fatal, resulting in 7 fatalities.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 18 Nov 1981 involved a Mitsubishi MU-2 Marquise, registration N444AR, operated by Aldora Corporation, at Wolcott, United States of America.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
Controlled flight into terrain due to improper IFR operation.
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