Accident Case Study: Time Lapse – misunderstanding in-cockpit weather displays can lead to tragedy

Description: One of the great advances in general aviation in recent years has been the widespread availability of datalink weather. Like any technology, though, it can be used improperly. Come along as we examine a tragic accident that highlights an important and often-overlooked limitation of datalink radar.

Excerpt from video transcript:
It’s just before ten o’clock on the night of December 19, 2011. In a house near Bryan, Texas, the gentle patter of light rain is suddenly interrupted by a sound like an explosion—loud and violent—but not like thunder. Outside, in what has now become a deluge, the source of the noise soon becomes apparent. A short distance away—strung out and shattered into a dozen pieces, lie the barely recognizable remains of a light aircraft—it’s five occupants beyond help. Soon, emergency responders are on site documenting the scene, doing what has to be done. There’s one simple question on everyone’s mind: What went wrong? Watch the video to learn more!