Casualties unknown

Agricultural Aircraft Crashes into Almond Trees After Takeoff (N731JK)

Delhi, CA, US

On March 11, 1983, a Cessna 188B (registration N731JK) was involved in an aviation accident near Delhi, CA. 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

A pilot reported that his agricultural spraying aircraft, during takeoff from a strip surrounded by trees, climbed above treetops then settled and crashed into almond trees, burning. The pilot stated the engine was at full power and a wind shift occurred.

Accident Details

The pilot reported that he had been engaged in fertilizer spraying operations in the area throughout the day. The accident occurred during a takeoff from a strip that was surrounded by trees. According to the pilot, after the aircraft climbed above the treetops, it began to settle. This loss of altitude continued until the aircraft impacted almond trees. Following the collision, the aircraft burned.

Pilot Account

The pilot stated that the engine was producing full power during the takeoff. He reported that a wind shift occurred at approximately the time he began the takeoff roll. The pilot indicated that the wind change affected the departure.

Weather Information

The wind conditions at the time were reported as from 180 degrees at 3 knots, with gusts to 8 knots. No other meteorological data was provided.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X42486. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.