Zone

Crash of a Cessna 411A in Cape Coral: 2 killed

Date & Time: Aug 18, 1980 at 0515 LT
Type of aircraft:
Operator:
Registration:
N1411M
Flight Type:
Survivors:
No
MSN:
411-0160
YOM:
1966
Crew on board:
2
Crew fatalities:
Pax on board:
0
Pax fatalities:
Other fatalities:
Total fatalities:
2
Captain / Total flying hours:
7250
Captain / Total hours on type:
48.00
Circumstances:
Crashed near the end of an unlighted and isolated road on a moonlight night while completing a contraband flight from Colombia. The twin engine airplane struck trees, crashed and burst into flames. Both occupants were killed.
Probable cause:
Collision with trees on final approach after the pilot misjudged altitude and clearance. The following contributing factors were reported:
- The pilot-in-command exercised poor judgment,
- Pilot fatigue,
- Approximately 1,000 lbs of marijuana/pills found on board,
- Crew flew 14 hours prior to the accident.
Final Report: