On June 18, 1983, a Cessna 172P (registration N64079) was involved in an aviation accident near Pensacola, FL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to see and avoid a pine tree while conducting low-altitude flight demonstrations. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot flying over a pasture at approximately 50 feet above ground level struck a pine tree with the right wing while demonstrating low-altitude flight to passengers. The aircraft sustained damage but landed normally.
What happened
The pilot reported descending to approximately 50 feet above ground level (AGL) to demonstrate flight at low altitude to his passengers. While flying over a pasture at this altitude, the aircraft struck a pine tree, which damaged the right wing. The pilot experienced no control problems and returned to the airport for a normal landing. It was reported that he did not see the tree in time to avoid it.
The investigation
No further mechanical examination details were provided in the source text.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to see and avoid a pine tree while conducting low-altitude flight demonstrations.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 18 Jun 1983 Cessna 172P accident near Pensacola, FL?
A pilot flying over a pasture at approximately 50 feet above ground level struck a pine tree with the right wing while demonstrating low-altitude flight to passengers. The aircraft sustained damage but landed normally.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 18 Jun 1983 involved a Cessna 172P, registration N64079, at Pensacola, FL.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to see and avoid a pine tree while conducting low-altitude flight demonstrations.
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