United Express Flight 2415 crashes on approach
December 26th, 1989
December 26th, 1989

How Long Ago?
35 years, 2 months, 17 days ago
Location
Pasco, Washington, USA
Category
Accidents & Tragedies
Links & References
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United Express Flight 2415 crashes on approach
United Express Flight 2415 crashed while approaching the Tri-Cities Airport in Pasco, Washington, killing all six people on board. The aircraft, a Beechcraft 1900, encountered poor visibility conditions during its descent in foggy weather. Efforts to locate the wreckage were complicated by the terrain, and the investigation later revealed issues with the flight crew's approach procedures.
All six occupants were killed in the crash.
The aircraft was a Beechcraft 1900 model.
Foggy conditions contributed to the accident.
Safety protocols were reviewed after the incident.
What Happened?
United Express Flight 2415, operated by a Beechcraft 1900, was on its descent to the Tri-Cities Airport in Pasco, Washington, when it crashed on December 26, 1989. The flight departed from Portland, Oregon, and was scheduled for a routine landing in Pasco. As the aircraft approached, it faced deteriorating weather conditions, with fog severely limiting visibility. The crew, composed of two pilots and four passengers, received no warning of the impending tragedy as they navigated to the runway. Tragically, the flight lost contact with air traffic control shortly before the crash. Upon impact, the aircraft was engulfed in flames, and rescue operations were initiated immediately, though all six occupants perished on the scene. The investigation that followed uncovered several key findings regarding the aircraft's approach. It was determined that the pilots may have misjudged the descent rate, contributing to the accident. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) scrutinized the standard operating procedures for pilots flying in adverse weather, leading to adjustments in training and operational protocols for commuter airlines to enhance safety measures against similar incidents. The crash underscored the importance of improved communication between pilots and air traffic control in challenging weather situations.
Why Does it Matter?
The crash of United Express Flight 2415 raised significant awareness around aviation safety protocols, especially for commuter flights operating under varying weather conditions. It led to changes in pilot training and approach procedures, highlighting the need for rigorous standards in air traffic communication. This incident served as a catalyst for discussions focused on improving aviation safety regulations to prevent similar accidents.
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