Pilot Debrief

BEECH A36 near Mabank, TX — 2012-10-06

Final reportCEN13FA006
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Date
2012-10-06
Location
Mabank, TX, USA
Aircraft
BEECH A36
Registration
N32GP
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
Fatal
Fatalities
4
Phase of flight
Descent

Probable cause

The pilot's loss of airplane control while maneuvering in instrument meteorological conditions.

NTSB narrative

The pilot obtained a weather briefing the day before the accident; however, no record was found indicating that he obtained an updated briefing on the day of the flight, which would have included weather advisories for instrument meteorological conditions (IMC) surrounding the airplane's route of flight. After encountering low clouds at the destination airport, the pilot requested a clearance to divert to another nearby airport, and he was provided the clearance. No further radio transmissions were received. The airplane crashed between the two airports. Photographs of the flight conditions taken by a pilot flying in the area about the time of the accident showed low, overcast clouds above the airplane. A review of logbook entries and mechanic's statements did not reveal any unresolved maintenance or airworthiness issues. A postaccident examination of the wreckage revealed no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation. Propeller and internal engine components exhibited damage consistent with the production of power at the time of the accident. Therefore, on the basis of the evidence, the pilot most likely lost control of the airplane while maneuvering in IMC.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Controlled flight into terrain
First missed decision gate
Pilot did not obtain updated weather briefing before descent into IFR conditions.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • Photos
  • 25 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents25

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