Piper PA-46 N85PG In-Flight Breakup, Westwind N1125A Crash + Other NTSB Reports

Piper PA-46 N85PG In-Flight Breakup, Westwind N1125A Crash + Other NTSB Reports

Author: Max Trescott | Aviation News Talk Network June 3, 2026 Duration: 49:54

Max Trescott and Rob Mark review a new NTSB recommendations for the FAA’s Runway Condition Assessment Matrix after wet-runway overruns showed that heavy rain can sharply reduce braking effectiveness.

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The episode then turns to several recent and preliminary accidents, including a Piper PA-28 N7188W loss-of-control crash at Akron-Fulton Airport, a Piper PA-32 Saratoga N5802N accident southwest of Empire, Nevada, a Diamond DA40 N787PV crash west of Elko, Nevada, and a North American AT-6 N29678 formation-flight crash near Bronson, Florida.

The final reports include three major lessons. In a Piper PA-28 N8438B crash at Muncie, Indiana, an instrument flight in an airplane not properly inspected for IFR ended in spatial disorientation after off-course maneuvering in IMC. In the IAI Westwind N1125A crash at Hot Springs, Virginia, the crew continued an unstabilized approach with altimeter, FMS, automation, and crew resource management problems. Finally, the Piper PA-46 N85PG in-flight breakup near Trout Creek, New York, shows the danger of continuing into convective weather, turbulence, and IMC while hand-flying.


Ever wonder what really happens after the dust settles on an aviation accident? NTSB News Talk-Aviation Accidents, Safety Investigations & Pilot Lessons pulls back the curtain on the meticulous world of safety investigations, transforming complex reports into actionable knowledge. Hosted by award-winning aviation journalist Rob Mark alongside Max Trescott-a flight instructor with formal accident investigator training-each episode delves into recent findings from the National Transportation Safety Board. Their conversations move beyond the headlines to analyze the chain of events, human factors, and mechanical failures that lead to incidents. This isn't about sensationalism; it's a clear-eyed look at the facts, designed to translate tragedy into tangible lessons for those in the cockpit. Whether you're a seasoned pilot, a flight instructor shaping the next generation, or an enthusiast fascinated by the intricacies of flight safety, this podcast serves as a vital resource. You'll hear detailed breakdowns of specific cases, discussions on broader safety trends, and practical takeaways that can directly inform decision-making and checklists. The dialogue between a journalist's perspective and an instructor's hands-on experience creates a unique and authoritative tone, making technical details accessible and immediately relevant. Tune in for a sobering yet essential exploration of how the aviation community learns, adapts, and strives to make every flight safer.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 32

NTSB News Talk – Aviation Accidents, Safety Investigations & Pilot Lessons
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