Casualties unknown

1983-08-02: North American AT-6D (N29938) — Muskegon, MI

Muskegon, MI, US

On August 2, 1983, a North American AT-6D (registration N29938) was involved in an aviation accident near Muskegon, MI. 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 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft struck trees after conducting an aerobatic loop at low altitude. Witnesses reported hearing the engine stop momentarily at the top of the loop, followed by rolls and a left bank before impact. No mechanical failures were found.

Incident Overview

An aircraft collided with trees after performing an aerobatic maneuver at low altitude. The accident occurred near a location where multiple witnesses observed the aircraft's flight path. Most witnesses heard the engine running during the sequence.

Witness Accounts

Several witnesses near the scene reported that the aircraft was flying low. Some stated that at the top of a loop, the engine sounded as though it stopped. During the descent following the loop, the aircraft executed approximately two rolls to the right and then leveled off. Shortly thereafter, a crash was heard.

A single witness reported seeing the aircraft approximately 50 feet above the trees. He heard the engine roar and observed the aircraft bank about 45 degrees to the left before it collided with the trees. This witness described the aircraft as having "good speed."

Mechanical and Passenger Information

During the investigation, no evidence of failure or malfunction of the aircraft was found. The back seat adult passenger stated that the aircraft performed well prior to the accident.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X44029. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.