Casualties unknown

Two Aircraft Accidents Involving Unlicensed Pilot (N4380Z)

Plentywood, MT, US

On February 14, 1982, a Piper PA-18 (registration N4380Z) operated by Olaf L. Hjelm was involved in an aviation accident near Plentywood, MT. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

On February 13 and 20, 1982, an unlicensed pilot's aircraft was found inverted in snow-covered terrain. The pilot was uncooperative and had no valid license.

Accident Sequence

On February 13, 1982, the pilot wrecked his aircraft. The county sheriff was informed on February 16, 1982, and upon arriving at the scene, observed the aircraft in an inverted position on snow-covered terrain. On February 20, 1982, the sheriff received information that the pilot had another accident. The sheriff went to the scene and found the aircraft on its top approximately 2 to 3 miles southwest of the location of the first mishap.

Investigation

During the investigation, the sheriff noted that the pilot's tractors and one pick-up truck were located where a runway had been plowed at the location of the first mishap. A doctor who examined the pilot after the crash stated that the pilot said he had been hunting coyotes. The pilot was uncooperative in providing information concerning the accident.

Pilot Status

According to FAA records, the pilot had no valid pilot license or medical certificate. His previous license had been revoked.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020917X01929. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.