Corporate Airlines Flight 5966 was a scheduled commuter flight connecting Kansas City to Kirksville Regional Airport in Missouri. On October 19, 2004, the flight departed from Kansas City International Airport with ten passengers and three crew members onboard. As the aircraft approached its destination, it encountered poor visibility due to inclement weather, including fog and low clouds. The pilots attempted to navigate through the challenging conditions but ultimately lost control of the twin-engine Beechcraft 1900D. The aircraft crashed into a wooded area just three miles from the airport's runway, resulting in the immediate loss of all onboard.

In the aftermath of the crash, investigations were held by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) to determine the factors contributing to this disaster. Preliminary reports indicated that the pilots had likely encountered a sudden loss of lift during the final approach, which may have been exacerbated by the prevailing weather conditions. The tragic event highlighted the risks associated with commuter airline operations, particularly in adverse weather environments and underscored the need for stringent safety regulations in the aviation industry.

The incident prompted renewed discussions about pilot training and aircraft safety systems. Measures to improve real-time weather reporting and communication were proposed to ensure pilots have accurate information during challenging conditions. Ultimately, this event served as a poignant reminder of the vulnerabilities present in regional air travel, leading to reforms aimed at enhancing the safety of passengers and crew alike.