Casualties unknown

Aircraft Encounters Performance Issues After Takeoff with Excess Weight (N9620L)

Bucklin, KS, US

On August 29, 1983, a Grumman AMERICAN AA-B (registration N9620L) was involved in an aviation accident near Bucklin, KS. 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 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

An airplane with a near-full fuel load and an unauthorized child seat in the baggage compartment experienced a slow climb and wing dip after lift-off, then mushed and struck the runway nosewheel-first before coming to rest in a field.

Flight Details

The pilot initiated takeoff with a near-full load of fuel. An adult passenger occupied the right seat, while a child was seated in the baggage compartment, which was not an approved seat. The density altitude at the airport was approximately 4,100 feet.

Takeoff and Climb

The pilot reported rotating for lift-off at the proper speed. However, after becoming airborne, the aircraft was climbing slowly. The right wing then dipped, followed by the left wing.

Accident Sequence

The aircraft subsequently mushed and struck the runway nosewheel first. It then came to rest off the right side of the runway in a field.

Aircraft Weight

It was estimated that the aircraft was above its maximum gross weight limit at the time of the accident.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 29 Aug 1983 Grumman AMERICAN AA-B accident near Bucklin, KS?

An airplane with a near-full fuel load and an unauthorized child seat in the baggage compartment experienced a slow climb and wing dip after lift-off, then mushed and struck the runway nosewheel-first before coming to rest in a field.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 29 Aug 1983 involved a Grumman AMERICAN AA-B, registration N9620L, at Bucklin, KS.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X44296. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.