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2 fatalities

Controlled Flight Into Terrain During Approach After Pilot Disorientation (N1214S)

Deadhorse, United States of AmericaLanding (descent or approach)

On May 16, 1973, a Swearingen SA26T Merlin II (registration N1214S) operated by Winship Air Services was involved in an aviation accident near Deadhorse, United States of America during landing or approach. 2 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Controlled flight into terrain during initial approach following improper IFR operation on part of the pilot. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 3 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

An aircraft crashed 28 NM south of an airport during descent in marginal weather after the pilot became disoriented. Two passengers died, three others were injured. The official probable cause was controlled flight into terrain due to improper IFR operation.

Accident Narrative

During descent in marginal weather conditions, the pilot lost spatial orientation and descended without visual ground reference. The airplane subsequently struck the ground and crashed 28 nautical miles south of the intended airport. The accident resulted in the deaths of two passengers and injuries to three other occupants.

Probable Cause and Factors

The official probable cause of the accident was determined to be controlled flight into terrain during initial approach following improper IFR operation by the pilot. The following factors were reported:

  • Became lost/disoriented
  • Low ceiling
  • Began approach before station passage
  • Descent below clearance limit
  • Exceeded 10 nautical mile arc outbound
  • Impacted terrain 28 nautical miles south of airport
Controlled flight into terrain

Related events

Same operator

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 16 May 1973 Swearingen SA26T Merlin II accident near Deadhorse, United States of America?

An aircraft crashed 28 NM south of an airport during descent in marginal weather after the pilot became disoriented. Two passengers died, three others were injured. The official probable cause was controlled flight into terrain due to improper IFR operation.

Were there any fatalities in the 16 May 1973 Swearingen SA26T Merlin II accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 2 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 16 May 1973 involved a Swearingen SA26T Merlin II, registration N1214S, operated by Winship Air Services, at Deadhorse, United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Controlled flight into terrain during initial approach following improper IFR operation on part of the pilot.

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