Particle.news
Download on the App Store
4 ARTICLES
·
3mo ago

NTSB: Icing Disabled Airspeed Sensor Before Texas Crash That Broke Up Midair

The preliminary report provides facts without naming a cause.

A crashed Cessna airplane is seen in a wooded area on Round Rock Road in Wimberley, on May 1. Five adults onboard the plane died in the April 30 crash, according to Hays County officials.
An image collage containing 3 images, Image 1 shows An aerial shot of the plane crash, Image 2 shows Investigators probing the scene of the crash. , Image 3 shows A photo of Seren Wilson playing tennis.
Image

Overview

  • The NTSB's preliminary report, released Friday, says the Cessna 421C had a frozen pitot tube and inoperative pitot heat.
  • The pilot told controllers he was using backup gauges and was cleared to descend to 4,000 feet to warm the instruments.
  • Radar and tracking data show abrupt turns and a plunge of more than 5,000 feet per minute before contact was lost.
  • Investigators documented a debris field about 1.25 miles long, which they say is consistent with an inflight breakup.
  • Texas DPS says all five aboard died during the April 30 flight to New Braunfels, and they were Amarillo Pickleball Club members traveling to a tournament.