Casualties unknown

Aircraft Crashes After Low Pass and Steep Bank Turn (N1094K)

Delavan, WI, US

On October 15, 1982, a Luscombe 8A (registration N1094K) operated by Daniel T. Wellace was involved in an aviation accident near Delavan, WI. 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 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft crashed in a corn field after returning from a 45-minute flight, making a low pass over the runway, and entering a steep bank during a left turn.

Incident Overview

According to the airport manager, an aircraft had been flying for approximately 45 minutes before returning to the airport. The manager reported that the pilot executed a low pass over the runway, appearing to check the wind conditions for landing. The manager then observed the pilot initiate a climb and enter a left turn, but did not witness the subsequent crash.

Witness Accounts

Two additional witnesses also saw the aircraft begin to climb and turn. One of them reported seeing the plane enter a steep bank, after which it suddenly went straight down. The aircraft impacted the ground nose-down in a corn field.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 15 Oct 1982 Luscombe 8A accident near Delavan, WI?

An aircraft crashed in a corn field after returning from a 45-minute flight, making a low pass over the runway, and entering a steep bank during a left turn.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 15 Oct 1982 involved a Luscombe 8A, registration N1094K, operated by Daniel T. Wellace, at Delavan, WI.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020917X04426. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.