Based on weather reports and statements from pilots who were flying in the vicinity on the day of Fossett’s disappearance, investigators determined that there were downdrafts in excess of 300 feet per minute in the vicinity.
NTSB Accidents
Student pilot hits snowbank on takeoff
The student pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during takeoff, which led to the impact with the snow banks.
Banner-towing flight ends with forced landing on beach
The loss of engine power due to undetermined reasons. A factor in the accident was the pilot’s failure to follow emergency procedures when he failed to jettison the advertising banner prior to his forced landing in water.
Taxi test takes off
A loss of engine power for undetermined reasons. The inadvertent lift-off that occurred during the high speed taxi checks was a factor.
Pilot without medical crashes 150
The pilot’s improper recovery from a bounced landing.
Crosswind landing ends off the runway
The pilot’s improper use of the aileron and rudder controls and inadequate compensation for the wind conditions during a crosswind landing resulting in a loss of directional control.
172 crashes after running out of fuel
Probable cause: The pilot’s improper fuel management, resulting in a total loss of engine power due to fuel exhaustion.
Worn brakes contribute to accident
Probable cause: The pilot’s misjudgment of the airplane’s speed and distance during the landing approach.
Preliminary report on Sebring Remos crash released
The rudder appeared to be fully deflected to the left and both the left and right ailerons appeared to be drooping trailing edge down, the witness added.