2 fatalities

Two Pilots Killed in Controlled Flight Into Terrain Near Novato-Gnoss Field (N6565L)

Novato-Gnoss Field, United States of AmericaLanding (descent or approach)

On January 11, 1974, a Piper PA-31-310 Navajo (registration N6565L) operated by UC Leasing Company was involved in an aviation accident near Novato-Gnoss Field, United States of America during landing or approach. 2 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Controlled flight into terrain after the crew failed to follow the approved procedures for an approach to Novato-Gnoss Field Airport. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 9 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

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

After a special VFR flight plan was cancelled, a twin-engine airplane struck a mountain slope while descending to Novato-Gnoss Field in low ceiling, rain, and fog. Both pilots were killed and the aircraft was destroyed.

Accident

Following the cancellation of a special VFR flight plan out of the Hamilton AFB control zone, the crew initiated a descent to Novato-Gnoss Field under VFR conditions in adverse weather. During the approach, the twin-engine airplane collided with the slope of a mountain and was destroyed. The wreckage was located two days later, and both pilots were found dead.

Weather Conditions

At the time of the accident, weather conditions were poor, characterized by low ceiling, rain, and fog.

Investigation Findings

The official investigation determined that the accident was a controlled flight into terrain. The probable cause was that the crew failed to follow approved procedures for an approach to Novato-Gnoss Field Airport.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 11 Jan 1974 Piper PA-31-310 Navajo accident near Novato-Gnoss Field, United States of America?

After a special VFR flight plan was cancelled, a twin-engine airplane struck a mountain slope while descending to Novato-Gnoss Field in low ceiling, rain, and fog. Both pilots were killed and the aircraft was destroyed.

Were there any fatalities in the 11 Jan 1974 Piper PA-31-310 Navajo accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 2 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 11 Jan 1974 involved a Piper PA-31-310 Navajo, registration N6565L, operated by UC Leasing Company, at Novato-Gnoss Field, United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Controlled flight into terrain after the crew failed to follow the approved procedures for an approach to Novato-Gnoss Field Airport. The following factors were reported: - Continued VFR flight into adverse weather conditions, - Misjudged altitude, - Low ceiling, rain and fog, - High obstructions.