Casualties unknown

Pilot Disorientation Leads to Forced Landing After Night Flight (N2172E)

Burnips, MI, US

On October 22, 1983, an Aeronca 7AC (registration N2172E) was involved in an aviation accident near Burnips, 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 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot consumed beer before departing from an unlit airport at night, became disoriented, and later landed in a field due to low fuel, causing the right main gear to collapse.

Incident Details

A pilot reported that he had consumed four beers after 2200 EDT while at the Bostwick Lake Inn, and then consumed another beer after leaving the inn. At approximately 0330 EDT, he and a passenger took off from an unlit airport. Shortly after takeoff, the pilot stated that he became disoriented and was unable to locate the airport. He continued flying until approximately 0630 EDT, when he decided to land in a field due to low fuel quantity. During the landing, the aircraft encountered soft terrain and the right main gear collapsed.

Pilot Background

The pilot did not have a valid biennial flight review and did not meet the recency requirements for flying with a passenger at night.

Aircraft and Conditions

The source does not specify the aircraft type, registration, engine count, or any further details about the aircraft or weather conditions. The airport was unlit.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 22 Oct 1983 Aeronca 7AC accident near Burnips, MI?

A pilot consumed beer before departing from an unlit airport at night, became disoriented, and later landed in a field due to low fuel, causing the right main gear to collapse.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 22 Oct 1983 involved an Aeronca 7AC, registration N2172E, at Burnips, MI.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X44792. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.