What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1984-03-27 involved a Cessna 175, registration N6733E, at Portage, MI.

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

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.

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.

1984-03-27: Cessna 175 (N6733E) — Portage, MI