On October 24, 1982, a Piper J-3 (registration N38449) operated by Woolslayer, Joseph was involved in an aviation accident near Sweetwater, TX. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An aircraft performing low passes at an airshow suffered structural damage when explosive charges detonated prematurely, buckling wing ribs and blowing off panels. The pilot executed an emergency landing without further incident.
Incident Overview
The Confederate Air Force was unable to participate in an airshow, prompting organizers to request that a pilot conduct low passes over the airport. Explosive charges were arranged to be detonated in order to simulate bomb bursts during these passes. During one such low pass, the charges exploded too soon, subjecting the aircraft to a sudden concussion.
Damage Sustained
The concussion from the premature detonation caused significant structural damage to the aircraft. The ribs in the left wing buckled under the force, the windshield was blown out, and all inspection panels were dislodged from the airframe. The aircraft sustained no other damage from the blast.
Emergency Landing
Despite the damage, the pilot was able to perform an emergency landing on the airport. No further damage occurred during the landing or afterward. The aircraft came to a stop safely without additional incident.