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TRAINING & SAFETY

Cold Weather Catastrophe

Private pilot John Berman recalls a distressing night flight during the winter of 2018, when prolonged exposure to extreme cold temperatures adversely affected his judgment.
 

In this real pilot story, John details the resulting unfortunate choices he made on the last leg of the long cross-country flight from Olathe, Kansas, to Santa Fe, New Mexico.

As is often the case, several links combining in the accident chain contributed to the accident. ASI explores the links that John could not break and led him to depart on the accident flight in his Velocity XL amateur built aircraft.

ASI’s Real Pilot Stories allow pilots to share their encounter with a dilemma so others can benefit—while comfortable on the ground—from lessons learned the hard way in flight.

Learn more:

Review the Weather Wise: Precipitation and Icing Safety Spotlight .

Take the In-flight Icing quiz.

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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.