Uploaded July 2026 | Updated September 2026, 14 hours ago
In October 2019, an experienced pilot became disoriented as he approached Raleigh-Durham International Airport at the end of a long cross-country flight from Columbus, Georgia.
After an unexpected runway change, the pilot appeared to be having trouble with his avionics while in instrument meteorological conditions and overshot several waypoints. The challenging conditions on final approach into Raleigh’s Runway 32 proved too much to handle.
Join the AOPA Air Safety Institute as we examine the circumstances that led to the flight’s tragic outcome.
The Accident Case Study series uses FAA information, NTSB documentation, and video animation to recreate accidents and share critical lessons, so we can recognize and avoid similar mistakes.
00:00 Introduction
00:26 The Flight Plan
01:34 Change of Plans
02:58 Approaching the Airport
06:09 ATC Suspects a Problem
09:50 A Dramatic Descent
11:29 The Aftermath
12:35 Analysis
The Accident Case Study series uses FAA information, NTSB documentation, and video animation to recreate accidents and share critical lessons, so we can recognize and avoid similar mistakes.
This video is proudly sponsored by Sporty's. Quality supplies and training products for pilots.
aopa.org/about/aopa-partners/sportys-pilot-shop
Apply credit to your ASI transcript for watching this video: bit.ly/ACSNightFallsCert
Learn More:
IFR Procedures Safety Center:
aopa.org/training-and-safety/air-safety-institute/safety-centers/ifr-procedures
IFR Insights Course:
elearning.aopa.org/client/app.html#/courses/100006?embedded
A Message from ASI Staff:
We share a deep passion for aviation safety. As compassionate pilots, we bring together safety research, analysis, and knowledge in creative ways to share aviation safety education with you—with the ultimate goal of one day having zero fatal accidents in GA. If you find this information valuable, please consider a donation to support our work. bit.ly/AOPASafetyDonate
The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) is the largest community of pilots in the world, providing aviation advocacy, education & inspiration. AOPA has represented the freedom to fly for all pilots since 1939. To learn more about becoming a member visit aopa.org/joinforsafety
Check out the Air Safety Institute Website:
aopa.org/training-and-safety/air-safety-institute
Follow AOPA on X:
https://x.com/flywithaopa
Follow AOPA on Instagram:
instagram.com/flywithaopa
Follow AOPA on Facebook:
facebook.com/flywithaopa
#aopa #flywithaopa #aviation #pilot #flying #planecrash #planeaccident
In October 2019, an experienced pilot became disoriented as he approached Raleigh-Durham International Airport at the end of a long cross-country flight from Columbus, Georgia.
After an unexpected runway change, the pilot appeared to be having trouble with his avionics while in instrument meteorological conditions and overshot several waypoints. The challenging conditions on final approach into Raleigh’s Runway 32 proved too much to handle.
Join the AOPA Air Safety Institute as we examine the circumstances that led to the flight’s tragic outcome.
The Accident Case Study series uses FAA information, NTSB documentation, and video animation to recreate accidents and share critical lessons, so we can recognize and avoid similar mistakes.
00:00 Introduction
00:26 The Flight Plan
01:34 Change of Plans
02:58 Approaching the Airport
06:09 ATC Suspects a Problem
09:50 A Dramatic Descent
11:29 The Aftermath
12:35 Analysis
The Accident Case Study series uses FAA information, NTSB documentation, and video animation to recreate accidents and share critical lessons, so we can recognize and avoid similar mistakes.
This video is proudly sponsored by Sporty's. Quality supplies and training products for pilots.
aopa.org/about/aopa-partners/sportys-pilot-shop
Apply credit to your ASI transcript for watching this video: bit.ly/ACSNightFallsCert
Learn More:
IFR Procedures Safety Center:
aopa.org/training-and-safety/air-safety-institute/safety-centers/ifr-procedures
IFR Insights Course:
elearning.aopa.org/client/app.html#/courses/100006?embedded
A Message from ASI Staff:
We share a deep passion for aviation safety. As compassionate pilots, we bring together safety research, analysis, and knowledge in creative ways to share aviation safety education with you—with the ultimate goal of one day having zero fatal accidents in GA. If you find this information valuable, please consider a donation to support our work. bit.ly/AOPASafetyDonate
The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) is the largest community of pilots in the world, providing aviation advocacy, education & inspiration. AOPA has represented the freedom to fly for all pilots since 1939. To learn more about becoming a member visit aopa.org/joinforsafety
Check out the Air Safety Institute Website:
aopa.org/training-and-safety/air-safety-institute
Follow AOPA on X:
https://x.com/flywithaopa
Follow AOPA on Instagram:
instagram.com/flywithaopa
Follow AOPA on Facebook:
facebook.com/flywithaopa
#aopa #flywithaopa #aviation #pilot #flying #planecrash #planeaccident
