Casualties unknown

Aircraft Crashes in Bean Field While Searching for Lost RC Plane (N516PC)

Oskaloosa, IA, US

On August 17, 1984, a Cessna 170B (registration N516PC) was involved in an aviation accident near Oskaloosa, IA. 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

Witnesses observed a circling aircraft at low altitude over a bean field. The pilot and passenger were reportedly looking for a lost radio-controlled airplane. After an increase in power, the aircraft entered a climbing left turn, stalled, and spun into the field northeast of Oskaloosa Airport.

Accident Details

Multiple witnesses reported seeing a small aircraft circling over a bean field at an altitude between 200 and 300 feet above ground level. According to the witnesses, the pilot and a passenger were searching for a radio-controlled airplane that had been lost in the field. The aircraft was observed making low-altitude passes over the area.

Sequence of Events

Witnesses stated that they heard an increase in engine power, and the aircraft began a climbing left turn. During the turn, the left wing dropped, and the aircraft entered a spin. The spin continued until the aircraft impacted the bean field.

Location

The accident occurred approximately one-eighth mile northeast of the Oskaloosa Airport. The aircraft came to rest in the bean field where the search for the RC airplane had been underway.

Investigation

The investigation is based solely on witness accounts. No further details regarding the aircraft or occupants have been released.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 17 Aug 1984 Cessna 170B accident near Oskaloosa, IA?

Witnesses observed a circling aircraft at low altitude over a bean field. The pilot and passenger were reportedly looking for a lost radio-controlled airplane. After an increase in power, the aircraft entered a climbing left turn, stalled, and spun into the field northeast of Oskaloosa Airport.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 17 Aug 1984 involved a Cessna 170B, registration N516PC, at Oskaloosa, IA.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X40816. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.