Probable cause
The pilot’s decision to maneuver the airplane at a low altitude toward rising terrain, which exceeded the climb capability of the airplane.
NTSB analysis
According to the pilot, he had flown toward rising terrain, however, waited too long to turn around as the airplane had a slow rate of climb. The pilot stated that he flew the airplane into terrain, which resulted in substantial damage to the airplane’s wings and fuselage.
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR24LA221 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jul 1, 2024
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Running Springs, California
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Beech B19
- N-number
- N6553R
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1975
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Personal
From the NTSB aviation accident database: N-registered aircraft, events since 2008, data through Oct 28, 2026. The file is published monthly, so the latest weeks are incomplete and recent records can change. The official source is the NTSB aviation investigation search. CheckAero is independent and not affiliated with the NTSB.