Casualties unknown

Aircraft Performs Tight Spin and Loop During Dual Instructional Flight; Instructor's Blood Alcohol Level Elevated (N95337)

Petaluma, CA, US

On December 16, 1984, a Cessna 152 (registration N95337) was involved in an aviation accident near Petaluma, CA. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During a local dual instructional flight, a student and instructor performed a tight three-turn right spin and an 'airshow perfect loop.' No preimpact malfunctions were found. The CFI's blood alcohol level was 0.21%.

Flight Itinerary

A local primary dual instructional flight departed at approximately 1030 hours. The student, who was in the pre-solo phase, was scheduled to review high airwork maneuvers. The certified flight instructor had recently developed an interest in aerobatics and was actively practicing them.

Observed Maneuvers

At about 1115 hours, multiple witnesses on the ground observed the aircraft execute a tight right-hand spin consisting of three turns. The spin recovery occurred at approximately 500 feet above ground level. Immediately following recovery, the aircraft performed a loop that witnesses described as "airshow perfect."

Post-Accident Examination

A thorough examination of the aircraft systems after the event found no evidence of any pre-impact malfunctions.

Toxicological Findings

A toxicology test administered to the certified flight instructor revealed a blood alcohol concentration of 0.21 percent.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 16 Dec 1984 Cessna 152 accident near Petaluma, CA?

During a local dual instructional flight, a student and instructor performed a tight three-turn right spin and an 'airshow perfect loop.' No preimpact malfunctions were found. The CFI's blood alcohol level was 0.21%.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 16 Dec 1984 involved a Cessna 152, registration N95337, at Petaluma, CA.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X41808. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.