Fatal Stall of Piper J-3 Cub During Dusk Flight

Casualties unknown • Waterford, VA, US

A Piper J-3 Cub crashed during dusk operations after the pilot nosed over into a steep angle. The aircraft involved was N70645, which the pilot had flown without prior permission.

What happened

The aircraft was observed flying around the airstrip at dusk. As it passed over the approximate center of the field, it was seen to nose over into a steep angle, continuing until impact.

The investigation

Investigation revealed no evidence of any malfunction of the aircraft or the engine. Further investigation into the pilot's background uncovered that he was going through divorce proceedings, which included a custody problem with two children. In addition, a note was found in the pocket of the pilot indicating the termination of a relationship immediately preceding the fatal flight.

Findings

The pilot had obtained prior permission to fly 1 of the 2 J3 Cub aircraft based at the field; however, the aircraft involved in the accident was not the one authorized. N70645 was owned by a pilot who admitted to being 'real good friends' with the victims wife.

Probable cause

The pilot's decision to fly an unauthorized aircraft while experiencing personal stressors, which led to a loss of control during dusk operations.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1984-11-06 Piper J3C-65 accident near Waterford, VA?

A Piper J-3 Cub crashed during dusk operations after the pilot nosed over into a steep angle. The aircraft involved was N70645, which the pilot had flown without prior permission.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1984-11-06 involved a Piper J3C-65, registration N70645, at Waterford, VA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's decision to fly an unauthorized aircraft while experiencing personal stressors, which led to a loss of control during dusk operations.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X41520. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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