Casualties unknown

Aircraft Crashes After Steep Climb and Wing-Over (N88327)

Haines, AK, US

On February 15, 1984, a Piper J3C-65S (registration N88327) was involved in an aviation accident near Haines, AK. 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
Aircraft registered N88327
Aircraft registered N88327. Photo: formulanone from Huntsville, United States / CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

According to a witness, an aircraft performing an intersection takeoff climbed almost vertically then winged over left and dove into the ground near the runway. Investigation found no pre-impact failures or pilot impairment.

Incident Overview

A witness reported that an aircraft made an intersection takeoff and immediately began an almost vertical climb. Upon reaching approximately 300 feet above ground level, the aircraft banked sharply to the left and descended into the ground about 100 feet from the runway centerline and near the upwind end.

Post-Accident Findings

Investigators examined the wreckage and noted that the horizontal stabilizer trim was found in a slightly nose-up position. No evidence of any failure or malfunction of the aircraft was discovered during the investigation. A gross external autopsy of the pilot revealed no indication of pre-impact impairment that would have affected his ability to operate the aircraft.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 15 Feb 1984 Piper J3C-65S accident near Haines, AK?

According to a witness, an aircraft performing an intersection takeoff climbed almost vertically then winged over left and dove into the ground near the runway. Investigation found no pre-impact failures or pilot impairment.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 15 Feb 1984 involved a Piper J3C-65S, registration N88327, at Haines, AK.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X38911. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.