Accident Details
Probable Cause and Findings
the pilot's loss of control during a go-around after impacting approach light poles on initial approach. A contributing factor was the prevailing dark night light condition.
Aircraft Information
Registered Owner (Historical)
Analysis
On April 23, 1998, approximately 2115 central daylight time, a Beech F33A airplane, N2179L, was destroyed when it impacted the ground while maneuvering in the landing pattern at the Del Rio International Airport, Del Rio, Texas. The private pilot, who was the sole occupant, received fatal injuries. Dark night visual meteorological conditions prevailed and no flight plan was filed for the Title 14 CFR Part 91 personal flight. According to family members, the pilot intended to make a full stop landing at Del Rio after a 1.3 hour cross country flight that originated from Port Aransas, Texas.
Several witnesses reported to the NTSB investigator-in-charge that they observed the aircraft execute an apparent "go-around" after an approach to runway 13, which is 5,100 feet in length. Both witnesses observed the aircraft turning to the right at mid-field when the nose "dropped." Subsequently, the airplane impacted the ground in a nose low attitude and a post impact fire ensued.
Data Source
Data provided by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). For more information on this event, visit the NTSB Records Search website. NTSB# FTW98FA191