Deadly Disorientation

Accident Case Study

On October 11, 2021, a home security camera in Santee, California, captures an airplane rapidly emerging from the bottom of a cloud base.

Split seconds later, the airplane spirals into a residential neighborhood, killing the pilot and one person on the ground.

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 ATC radio communication transcripts, NTSB documentation, and video animation to recreate accidents and share critical lessons, so we can recognize and avoid similar mistakes.

	Tablet: Compatible
	Length: 16 mins
	Topic: Loss of Control, Situational Awareness, and VFR into IMC
	FAA WINGS: Eligible*
	Accident Forgiveness: Eligible

To get WINGS credit for watching this video, complete a short 10-question quiz with a passing score of 100 percent and click generate certificate.*

TAKE THE QUIZ TO EARN WINGS CREDIT

*WINGS credits are submitted to the FAA automatically when added to your ASI transcript and will appear on your FAA transcript shortly after. Remember the email address used for your AOPA web account—the one that you will use to earn your ASI completion certificate for credit—MUST MATCH YOUR FAA WINGS ACCOUNT email address, or you will not receive WINGS credit. Thank you.

Learn more:

Review the Spatial Disorientation Safety Spotlight publication.

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.

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AOPA has enjoyed a partnership with Sporty’s that began long before the company became a Supporting Sponsor in 2012. AOPA pilots have relied on Sporty’s products since the company was launched in the early 1960s. Sporty’s and AOPA have continued to partner for more than 60 years on items critical to safety, fun and freedom to fly. Today, the dedication of Sporty’s instructors, product specialists, and exemplary customer service representatives positions Sporty’s as the world's premier creator of aviation training products, along with an extensive line of pilot supplies and operating its own flight school.

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