No fatalities

2004-12-18: Piper PA-61 Aerostar (Ted Smith 601) (N60CF) — Private United States of America — Wheeling-Ohio County, United States of America

Wheeling-Ohio County, United States of AmericaLanding (descent or approach)

On December 18, 2004, a Piper PA-61 Aerostar (Ted Smith 601) (registration N60CF) operated by Private United States of America was involved in an aviation accident near Wheeling-Ohio County, United States of America during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot misjudged his distance/speed, and his intentional landing on an unsuitable taxiway at night. A factor in the accident was the night light conditions. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 1781199922Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot attempting a night landing on a closed taxiway overran the surface, rolled down an embankment, and struck trees. Approximately 250 kg of cocaine was found onboard. The pilot sustained minor injuries and left the area.

Accident

A pilot attempted a night landing on a taxiway in front of a control tower that was closed at the time. The airplane overran the end of the taxiway, rolled down an embankment, and struck trees. The pilot, whose identity was not confirmed, was believed to have incurred minor injuries. He subsequently paid a passerby to take him to a local hotel, and after a night's rest, he left the area.

Aircraft and Ownership

Ownership of the airplane could not be determined due to a recent sale.

Illicit Cargo

Approximately 250 kilograms of cocaine were found onboard the airplane.

Investigation

Further investigation was being conducted by federal authorities and local law enforcement. The official probable cause stated that the pilot misjudged his distance/speed, and his intentional landing on an unsuitable taxiway at night. A factor in the accident was the night light conditions.