On May 20, 1984, a Piper PA-32RT-300 (registration N30298) was involved in an aviation accident near Avalon, CA. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot flying near Catalina Island encountered a downdraft during a climbing left turn, causing the aircraft to slow below the automatic gear lowering speed and collide with trees at 1400 ft MSL.
Overview
A pilot flying near Catalina Island reported that after flying to the island and proceeding northwest along its north side, they initiated a climbing left turn over the island from approximately 500 feet mean sea level (MSL). During the turn, at about 1000 feet MSL, the aircraft encountered a downdraft, which reduced the aircraft's speed to below the automatic gear lowering speed. Subsequently, the aircraft collided with trees at an elevation of around 1400 feet MSL.
Witness Report
A ground witness reported observing the aircraft flying low over the ground prior to the accident.
What happened in the 20 May 1984 Piper PA-32RT-300 accident near Avalon, CA?
A pilot flying near Catalina Island encountered a downdraft during a climbing left turn, causing the aircraft to slow below the automatic gear lowering speed and collide with trees at 1400 ft MSL.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 20 May 1984 involved a Piper PA-32RT-300, registration N30298, at Avalon, CA.
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