2 fatalities

Pilot Descends Below Minimum Altitude, Strikes Trees on Approach to Jackson-McKellar Sipes Airport (N6254X)

Jackson-McKellar Sipes, United States of AmericaLanding (descent or approach)

On January 12, 1971, a Rockwell Aero Commander 500 (registration N6254X) operated by Racran Corporation was involved in an aviation accident near Jackson-McKellar Sipes, United States of America during landing or approach. 2 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot failed to follow the approved procedures. The following factors were reported: - Improper IFR operation, - Overcast at 400 feet and fog, - Descended below MDA of 760 feet approximately 3 miles before runway threshold. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 2026-06-12Data APIEditorial standards

During an approach to Jackson-McKellar Sipes Airport, the pilot encountered fog and descended below the minimum descent altitude, causing the airplane to strike trees and crash three miles short of the runway. Both occupants were killed.

Accident Details

On approach to Jackson-McKellar Sipes Airport, the pilot encountered foggy conditions. The pilot decided to reduce altitude and descended below the minimum descent altitude. The airplane subsequently struck trees and crashed three miles short of the runway. The aircraft was destroyed and both occupants were killed.

Investigation Findings

The official investigation determined that the probable cause of the accident was the pilot's failure to follow approved procedures. Contributing factors included improper IFR operation, overcast conditions at 400 feet with fog, and descending below the minimum descent altitude of 760 feet approximately 3 miles before the runway threshold.