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Casualties unknown

Pilot Impairment in Stall Accident During Approach to Oil Platform (N9786G)

Lafitte, LA, US

On August 20, 1984, a Cessna 180J (registration N9786G) operated by Datachem Corp. was involved in an aviation accident near Lafitte, LA. 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 an abrupt steep left turn at low altitude followed by an accelerated stall, leading to a nose-down, left-wing-down impact with terrain. No mechanical failures were found, and the pilot's blood alcohol level was 0.211%.

Accident Overview

Witnesses observed the aircraft as it approached an oil production platform situated in a marshy area near the destination airstrip. According to their reports, the aircraft executed an abrupt, steep left turn at an altitude of 200 to 300 feet above ground level. This maneuver was followed by what they described as an accelerated stall.

Impact Details

The aircraft subsequently impacted the terrain in a nose-down, left-wing-down attitude. The steep descent and wing-low orientation are consistent with the reported stall event.

Mechanical Examination

Investigators conducted a thorough examination of the wreckage and found no evidence of preimpact mechanical failure or malfunction. The airframe, engine, and systems appeared to have been functional up to the moment of impact.

Pilot Toxicology

Toxicological analysis of the pilot revealed a blood alcohol level of 0.211 percent, which exceeds typical legal limits for operating a vehicle.

Loss of control in flight

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 20 Aug 1984 Cessna 180J accident near Lafitte, LA?

Witnesses observed an abrupt steep left turn at low altitude followed by an accelerated stall, leading to a nose-down, left-wing-down impact with terrain. No mechanical failures were found, and the pilot's blood alcohol level was 0.211%.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 20 Aug 1984 involved a Cessna 180J, registration N9786G, operated by Datachem Corp., at Lafitte, LA.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X40703. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.