At approximately 1045 central time, a Cessna 210N crashed while maneuvering near Valley Springs. The non-instrument-rated pilot was killed. Instrument meteorological conditions prevailed for the flight from Midland to Sugarland. The pilot had obtained two weather briefings prior to departure and was informed there was an Airmet for IFR conditions in effect and that VFR was not recommended. The pilot said he would call back prior to his departure for another weather briefing. The pilot called back at 0851 but an update for the Airmet was not available. The pilot then got weather reports for airports along his route of flight. Radar data showed the accident airplane apparently made a 180 degree turn before being lost from radar. A witness said the airplane sounded like it was having engine trouble before the crash. The pilots logbook revealed 580 hours total time, with 1.3 hours in actual instrument conditions.
February 22, Valley Springs, Texas / Cessna 210
At approximately 1045 central time, a Cessna 210N crashed while maneuvering near Valley Springs. The non-instrument-rated pilot was killed. Instrument meteorological conditions prevailed for the flight from Midland to Sugarland. The pilot had obtained two weather briefings prior to departure and was informed there was an Airmet for IFR conditions in effect and that VFR was not recommended. The pilot said he would call back prior to his departure for another weather briefing. The pilot called back at 0851 but an update for the Airmet was not available. The pilot then got weather reports for airports along his route of flight. Radar data showed the accident airplane apparently made a 180 degre...
Key Takeaways:
- A non-instrument-rated pilot with minimal actual instrument flight experience (1.3 hours) was killed when his Cessna 210N crashed in instrument meteorological conditions (IMC).
- The pilot had received multiple weather briefings warning of prevailing IFR conditions and an Airmet for which VFR was not recommended.
- Radar data showed the aircraft made a 180-degree turn before being lost, and a witness reported hearing engine trouble prior to the crash.
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