Casualties unknown

Aircraft Strikes Van During Low-Altitude Pass After Parachute Drop (N4963D)

Dublin, VA, US

On December 30, 1984, a Cessna 182A (registration N4963D) was involved in an aviation accident near Dublin, VA. 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

An aircraft, after dropping parachutists, made a low-altitude pass over a van parked on a ridge, striking it with the landing gear just after ducking under a low power line.

Incident Overview

Following a parachute drop, the aircraft was observed flying eastward over the drop zone. It executed a left 180-degree turn and aligned itself on an easterly heading toward a parked van. The van was situated on a ridge that lay across the aircraft's flight path.

Sequence of Events

Witnesses reported that the aircraft descended to an altitude estimated between 10 and 30 feet above ground level. It then performed a low-altitude, high-speed run directly toward the van. Moments before impact, the aircraft appeared to dip beneath a low-hanging power line that crossed its trajectory. The aircraft subsequently struck the van with its landing gear.

Observations

No additional details about the aircraft, occupants, or damage were provided in the source. The incident was described solely through witness accounts, which noted the aircraft's maneuvers and the presence of the power line.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 30 Dec 1984 Cessna 182A accident near Dublin, VA?

An aircraft, after dropping parachutists, made a low-altitude pass over a van parked on a ridge, striking it with the landing gear just after ducking under a low power line.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 30 Dec 1984 involved a Cessna 182A, registration N4963D, at Dublin, VA.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X41706. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.