On November 17, 1984, a Piper PA-28-236 (registration N2831Y) was involved in an aviation accident near Atlantic City, NJ. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's disabling heart attack during the traffic pattern turn, which resulted in loss of control and impact with water. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot suffered a disabling heart attack while turning to align with the runway in the traffic pattern, causing the aircraft to descend into water at a steep nose-down angle.
What happened
The incident occurred while the aircraft was operating within the traffic pattern. Observers noted the aircraft in close proximity to another plane during this phase of flight. The pilot extended the downleg leg as part of the standard circuit procedure.
During the subsequent turn intended to align the aircraft with the runway, the pilot suffered a disabling heart attack. Unable to maintain control or recover the aircraft from its descent, the plane entered the water at a nose-down angle of approximately 80 degrees.
Probable cause
The pilot's disabling heart attack during the traffic pattern turn, which resulted in loss of control and impact with water.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 17 Nov 1984 Piper PA-28-236 accident near Atlantic City, NJ?
A pilot suffered a disabling heart attack while turning to align with the runway in the traffic pattern, causing the aircraft to descend into water at a steep nose-down angle.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 17 Nov 1984 involved a Piper PA-28-236, registration N2831Y, at Atlantic City, NJ.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's disabling heart attack during the traffic pattern turn, which resulted in loss of control and impact with water.
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