Casualties unknown

Aircraft Collides with Water During Special VFR Approach (N6737L)

St. Petersburg, FL, US

On December 3, 1984, a Beech V35B (registration N6737L) was involved in an aviation accident near St. Petersburg, FL. 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

A pilot operating under special VFR clearance collided with water after failing to arrest a descent during approach. The aircraft had been cleared to land and was maneuvering to avoid fog patches.

Event Sequence

The pilot received special VFR clearance to enter the traffic pattern for landing. Air traffic control advised the pilot to descend to 1,600 feet and contact the tower for landing. The pilot initiated a descent and lowered the landing gear to increase the rate of descent. While maneuvering to remain clear of fog patches, the pilot received landing clearance. Subsequently, the pilot noted the altimeter reading between 200 and 300 feet. The pilot applied power but failed to arrest the descent. The aircraft subsequently collided with water.

Operational Details

The flight was conducted under special VFR conditions, which allow operations in meteorological conditions below standard visual flight rules minimums. The pilot was following instructions to enter the traffic pattern and was cleared to land. The aircraft was flying near areas of fog, and the pilot was taking action to avoid these patches.

Outcome

The aircraft impacted water. No further information about the aircraft type, registration, occupants, injuries, or damage is provided in the source.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 3 Dec 1984 Beech V35B accident near St. Petersburg, FL?

A pilot operating under special VFR clearance collided with water after failing to arrest a descent during approach. The aircraft had been cleared to land and was maneuvering to avoid fog patches.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 3 Dec 1984 involved a Beech V35B, registration N6737L, at St. Petersburg, FL.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X41849. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.