Crash of a Rockwell Grand Commander 680E in Pendleton
Date & Time:
Jan 20, 1979 at 0138 LT
Registration:
N6872S
Survivors:
Yes
Schedule:
Portland - Pendelton - Boise
MSN:
680-0392-72
YOM:
1956
Crew on board:
1
Crew fatalities:
Pax on board:
0
Pax fatalities:
Other fatalities:
Total fatalities:
0
Captain / Total hours on type:
679.00
Circumstances:
On a night approach to Pendleton Airport, the pilot encountered poor weather conditions and failed to realize his altitude was too low when the twin engine airplane struck the ground and crashed few miles from the airport. The aircraft was destroyed and the pilot, sole on board, was seriously injured.
Probable cause:
Controlled collision with ground on approach due to improper IFR operation. The following contributing factors were reported:
- Failed to initiate go-around,
- Misread or failed to read instruments,
- Low ceiling,
- Fog,
- Visibility two miles or less.
- Failed to initiate go-around,
- Misread or failed to read instruments,
- Low ceiling,
- Fog,
- Visibility two miles or less.
Final Report:
