On February 6, 1984, an American AA-1A (registration N9480L) was involved in an aviation accident near Lampasas, TX. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An aircraft descended at a 45-degree angle with wings level into the ground on the east bank of the Colorado River. No witnesses. Investigation found no systems malfunction; pilot was planning a spring canoe trip.
Overview
An aircraft descended into the ground along the east bank of the Colorado River. The impact occurred at an angle of approximately 45 degrees to the horizon, and the aircraft's wings were level. No witnesses observed the accident.
Investigation
The investigation included a thorough examination of the aircraft and its systems. No malfunctions were found in any of the aircraft's systems. The pilot had been planning a springtime canoe trip down the Colorado River. The pilot's father suspected that the pilot might have been checking the river conditions in preparation for this trip when the accident occurred.
Summary of Findings
The investigation concluded that there were no system malfunctions. The pilot's planned canoe trip and his father's speculation about the purpose of the flight were noted. No other factors were identified.