Airplane Suffered Substantial Damage From Hail To The Leading Edges Of Both Wings, The Vertical, And Horizontal Stabilizers

Location: DeRidder, LA Accident Number: CEN24LA100
Date & Time: January 26, 2024, 17:55 Local Registration: N811CW
Aircraft: Beechcraft BE58 Injuries: 2 None
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General aviation - Personal

On January 26, 2024, about 1755 central standard time, a Beechcraft BE58, N811CW, was substantially damaged when it was involved in an accident near DeRidder, Louisiana. The pilot and passenger were not injured. The airplane was operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 personal flight.

The pilot reported that the airplane was in cruise flight at 11,000 ft mean sea level (msl), near DeRidder, Louisiana, when he asked for and received a new heading from Air Traffic Control (ATC) to avoid weather ahead. While on the new heading the airplane entered instrument conditions and a short time later experienced a strong updraft, heavy rain, hail, and severe turbulence. During the encounter with weather, the airplane suffered substantial damage from hail to the leading edges of both wings, the vertical, and horizontal stabilizers. The pilot diverted to Chennault International Airport (KCWF), Lake Charles, Louisiana, and landed without further incident.

FMI: www.ntsb.gov