Casualties unknown

Student Pilot Reports Climb Issue; Aircraft Lands Partially Submerged in Creek (N1516M)

Clarkstown, NY, US

On April 7, 1984, a Cessna 182P (registration N1516M) operated by Garrett Miller was involved in an aviation accident near Clarkstown, NY. 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 takeoff, a student pilot informed the CFI that the aircraft would not climb. The CFI assumed control, the engine appeared to stop, and the aircraft glided into a left bank, striking the ground with its left wing and coming to rest partially submerged in a creek.

Incident Summary

During the takeoff roll, the student pilot reported to the certified flight instructor (CFI) that the aircraft was unable to continue climbing. The CFI immediately took control of the aircraft. Witnesses on the ground reported that the engine seemed to stop, after which the aircraft entered a glide from an approximate altitude of 150 feet above ground level. During the glide, the aircraft banked to the left. The left wing subsequently contacted the ground, and the aircraft came to a stop partially submerged in a creek.

Investigation Findings

Following the accident, an inspection and testing of the aircraft and its engine were conducted. The examination did not reveal any mechanical failure or malfunction that could explain the loss of engine power or the subsequent loss of control. No evidence of pre-impact mechanical issues was found.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 7 Apr 1984 Cessna 182P accident near Clarkstown, NY?

During takeoff, a student pilot informed the CFI that the aircraft would not climb. The CFI assumed control, the engine appeared to stop, and the aircraft glided into a left bank, striking the ground with its left wing and coming to rest partially submerged in a creek.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 7 Apr 1984 involved a Cessna 182P, registration N1516M, operated by Garrett Miller, at Clarkstown, NY.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X39385. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.