Accident Probes

The NTSB has several (too many, actually…) categories it uses to classify aviation incidents and accidents. Among them is the catch-all phrase improper IFR, which the Board usually uses to describe a pilot executing procedures you wont find in the Aeronautical Information Manual.But there is no similar category for controllers who, for whatever reason, provide substandard and/or confusing service to pilots clearly suffering under a high workload. A good example of how the improper IFR label can be applied to controllers as well as pilots-simultaneously-occurred on January 23, 2003, when a Cirrus SR-20 collided with power lines near San Jose, Calif.The Private pilot/owner was kille…

A daylight scud run in a slow airplane is risky enough. This accident reveals how deadly it can be at night in a fast airplane.

Few things demand getting the airplane on the ground more quickly than an in-flight fire. Heres why.

This time of year, almost any forecast includes a chance for airframe ice. Heres why to pay attention.

Its tough enough to shoot an IFR approach without the proper equipment aboard.

Its an article of faith that major maintenance work isnt complete until a full test of all components and systems can be made. Heres why.

A VFR-only Bonanza pilot succumbs to peer pressure and launches into marginal conditions.

Add a late descent clearance to a request to expedite and the result is something Harry Callahan warned us about

As home beckons, commuting pilot slugs through storms and delays before finally meeting his match a half-hour from home

Skirting under the shelf of Denvers Class B and talking to ATC, a northbound Skyhawk climbs into the path of a southbound Cheyenne