Casualties unknown

Aircraft Strikes Ground During Turnaround in High-Density Altitude Conditions (N70296)

Pasco, WA, US

On July 27, 1984, a Cessna A188B (registration N70296) was involved in an aviation accident near Pasco, WA. 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 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft loaded with 1,500 pounds of dry chemical fertilizer struck the ground during a turnaround attempt in high-density altitude conditions, coming to rest upright.

Accident Overview

An aircraft loaded with 1,500 pounds of dry chemical fertilizer experienced a ground strike during a turnaround maneuver. The accident occurred in conditions of high density altitude, with the air temperature at 95 degrees Fahrenheit. Rising terrain was present at the point where the pilot attempted the turn.

Sequence of Events

While attempting to turn away from rising terrain, the right main landing gear of the aircraft struck the ground, followed by contact with the right wing. The aircraft subsequently came to rest in an upright position.

Pilot Actions

The pilot reported that he decreased the angle of bank and climb, added full power, and began dumping the chemical load. Despite these actions, the pilot stated that ground contact could not be avoided during the turn.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X40530. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.