On June 4, 1985, a Cessna 140 (registration N3180N) was involved in an aviation accident near Tioga, TX. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An aircraft approaching at about 100 feet above ground level performed a steep bank, then exhibited a loss of control, impacting the ground in a nose-down attitude. No preimpact mechanical failure was found. The pilot's blood alcohol level was 0.132%.
Accident Sequence
Witnesses observed the aircraft approaching from the northwest at an estimated altitude of about 100 ft above ground level. As it passed their position, the pilot rolled the aircraft into a steep right bank of approximately 90 degrees, then rolled back to wings level. After the roll-out, the aircraft appeared to be suspended in midair, and its wings rocked back and forth. Subsequently, the nose dropped, and the aircraft impacted the ground in a nose-down attitude of about 15 degrees. After impact, the aircraft skidded approximately 54 ft before coming to rest.
Findings
Examination of the aircraft revealed no evidence of preimpact part failure or malfunction. The pilot's blood sample showed an alcohol level of 0.132%. Witnesses reported that the wind was from the southeast at 15 knots, gusting to 25 knots.