On June 18, 1983, a Bellanca 17-31A (registration N8838V) was involved in an aviation accident near Ducor, CA. One person was killed. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot on a photographic mission over Bowen Ranch was fatally injured when the aircraft struck a hill at 1900 feet MSL. The mountain peak stood at 2412 feet. The weather was VMC with 50 miles visibility and no wind.
Accident Overview
An aircraft on a photographic mission crashed into the side of a hill at an elevation of 1900 feet above mean sea level (MSL). The peak of the mountain that was struck was 2412 feet MSL. The pilot sustained fatal injuries in the crash and the ground fire that ignited afterward.
Flight Information
According to the pilot's secretary, the flight was intended to photograph the Bowen Ranch and the hills on the ranch. The aircraft was engaged in this mission when the collision occurred. The aircraft impacted the terrain in a straight-ahead orientation with the left wing in a lowered position.
Weather Conditions
At the time of the accident, the weather was visual meteorological conditions (VMC). Visibility was 50 miles and the wind was calm.
What happened in the 18 Jun 1983 Bellanca 17-31A accident near Ducor, CA?
A pilot on a photographic mission over Bowen Ranch was fatally injured when the aircraft struck a hill at 1900 feet MSL. The mountain peak stood at 2412 feet. The weather was VMC with 50 miles visibility and no wind.
Were there any fatalities in the 18 Jun 1983 Bellanca 17-31A accident?
The accident was fatal, resulting in 1 fatality.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 18 Jun 1983 involved a Bellanca 17-31A, registration N8838V, at Ducor, CA.
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