Piper PA-46 (Malibu/Meridian/Mira... crash, Dec 22, 2008 (2 killed)
Piper PA-46 (Malibu/Meridian/Mirage/Matrix/M-Class) accident on December 22, 2008 near Hayden-Yampa Valley, Colorado, United States with 2 fatalities....
- Date: December 22, 2008
- Aircraft: Piper PA-46 (Malibu/Meridian/Mirage/Matrix/M-Class)
- Location: Hayden-Yampa Valley, Colorado, United States
- Fatalities: 2
- Phase of flight: Approach and landing
- Cause: The pilot lost situational awareness while maneuvering in adverse weather, resulting in spatial disorientation.
A Piper Malibu on approach to Hayden, Colorado, struggled to lower its landing gear while turning back toward the localizer in reduced visibility and cloud. Radar data showed erratic turns, speed changes, and a rapid descent before the aircraft hit the ground near the airport. Both pilots on board were killed.