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Aircraft Loaded Above Maximum Gross Weight Crashed After Maneuvering Near Traverse City, Michigan (N6733E)

Portage, MI, US

On March 27, 1984, a Cessna 175 (registration N6733E) was involved in an aviation accident near Portage, 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

During a return flight to Traverse City, Michigan, the aircraft was observed maneuvering at tree-top level. It entered a dive, performed a 270-degree turn, then banked steeply, lost a wing, entered a spin, and crashed. No preimpact failure was found; the aircraft was estimated at 2420 lbs, exceeding the 2350-lb maximum.

Flight Observation

Witnesses observed the aircraft during a return flight to Traverse City, Michigan, flying at tree-top and rooftop heights. In the vicinity of the crash site, the aircraft was seen maneuvering.

Maneuvers and Descent

The aircraft entered a dive at tree-top level. It then made a sweeping 270-degree turn, climbing to approximately 500 feet above ground level. While maneuvering, the aircraft entered a steep left bank. Subsequently, the right wing dropped, and the aircraft entered a spin before crashing.

Crash and Examination

After the crash, an examination found no preimpact part failure or malfunction.

Weight and Loading

The aircraft was estimated to be loaded to a weight of 2,420 lbs. The maximum authorized gross weight was 2,350 lbs.

Loss of control in flight

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 27 Mar 1984 Cessna 175 accident near Portage, MI?

During a return flight to Traverse City, Michigan, the aircraft was observed maneuvering at tree-top level. It entered a dive, performed a 270-degree turn, then banked steeply, lost a wing, entered a spin, and crashed. No preimpact failure was found; the aircraft was estimated at 2420 lbs, exceeding the 2350-lb…

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 27 Mar 1984 involved a Cessna 175, registration N6733E, at Portage, MI.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X38975. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.