On April 17, 1985, a Cessna 152 (registration N89862) was involved in an aviation accident near Roby, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain aircraft control during a low-altitude maneuver, resulting in a left wing drop and collision with a tree. 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.
A pipeline patrol aircraft crashed after its left wing dropped during a low-altitude turn over a former residence, striking a tree in a steep nose-down attitude with no engine failure evidence found.
What happened
The pilot of a pipeline patrol aircraft deviated from the established flight route to circle over a specific house where he previously resided. Witnesses observed the aircraft operating at a low altitude while executing a left turn. During this maneuver, the left wing suddenly dropped, and the rate of the turn increased significantly. The aircraft subsequently impacted a tree in a steep nose-down attitude.
The investigation
Examination of the event revealed no evidence of an engine failure or malfunction prior to the impact. The mechanical systems appeared functional up to the point of the accident.
Findings
The primary factor was the left wing drop during a low-altitude turn, which led directly to the loss of control and subsequent impact with terrain.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain aircraft control during a low-altitude maneuver, resulting in a left wing drop and collision with a tree.
What happened in the 17 Apr 1985 Cessna 152 accident near Roby, TX?
A pipeline patrol aircraft crashed after its left wing dropped during a low-altitude turn over a former residence, striking a tree in a steep nose-down attitude with no engine failure evidence found.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 17 Apr 1985 involved a Cessna 152, registration N89862, at Roby, TX.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to maintain aircraft control during a low-altitude maneuver, resulting in a left wing drop and collision with a tree.
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