I saw this on another forum today. Very very sad. Anyone have any further details? RIP...

MW

https://www.alaskasnewssource.com/2021/02/05/plane-may-have-suffered-a-midair-breakup-before-deadly-crash-near-chitina/

It was an early 185, not a 180, but same same. I'm friend's with the owner of the plane/operation and its a sad situation all around. I've trusted them with my life before and will continue to do so. Scary hearing about planes we trust come apart. I'm not speculating about the exact causes, but one thing in common with all 180s and 185s... they're all old. Aluminum does not have an endurance limit, it will always crack eventually, no matter how small the repeated stresses are.

RIP to the two on board including the very very experienced pilot.

Man, that just gives me chills thinking about it. Prayers for those lost, and their families.

MTV

Was it windy or turbulent in the area? So sad for those involved, their family and friends.

Thanks for the update ASA.

I was not 100% sure 180 or 185. It gives me chills to MTV. It just sucks for everyone. As we all know it will be a long time before any determination is made from the NTSB. Prayers out to those lost....

MW

Thank you for the edit Zane.

I'm sorry I goofed it up.

MW

G44 wrote:Was it windy or turbulent in the area? So sad for those involved, their family and friends.

As far as I know, weather was not a factor.

Also, very unusual for a Cessna to break up in flight. The tail was separate from the fuselage.

My condolences to friends and family of those involved.

Ross

That is so sad.

My first thoughts in hearing this went to the new 180/182/185 AD that just came out in December regarding cracks in the tailcone and horizontal stabilizer attach structure.

https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2020/11/02/2020-24046/airworthiness-directives-textron-aviation-inc-airplanes

Be sure and get your birds inspected my friends.

Fly safe.

Have the names been released yet? I cant get on ADN.

Kurt

No use in speculation at this point, but all around its a really bad thing... really awful.

Condolences to the families and all involved. Sad day.