Casualties unknown

Aerial Application Flight Strikes Irrigation Ditch After Loss of Airspeed (N9302K)

Needles, CA, US

On November 7, 1983, a Cessna 188 (registration N9302K) was involved in an aviation accident near Needles, CA. 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 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

An aerial application flight crashed after the pilot experienced an unexpected change in drift, loss of indicated airspeed, and settling during a turn, striking a raised concrete irrigation ditch. The pilot reported indications of temperature inversion and wind shear near the surface.

Flight History

The pilot reported taking off approximately 10 to 15 minutes after sunset for an aerial application flight. During a turn to begin a swath run, the pilot noticed an unexpected change in drift.

Accident Sequence

As the aircraft descended below the level of nearby power lines, there was a loss of indicated airspeed and the aircraft began to settle. Subsequently, the landing gear struck the lip of a raised concrete irrigation ditch and the aircraft crashed.

Pilot Report

The pilot reported indications of a temperature inversion and wind shear near the surface. The engine was reportedly operating normally at the time of the accident.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X45111. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.