1 fatality

Pilot Drowns After Aircraft Wing Strikes Water During Low-Altitude Turns (N99018)

Daytona Beach, FL, US

On June 8, 1985, an Ercoupe (eng & Research Corp.) 415-C (registration N99018) was involved in an aviation accident near Daytona Beach, FL. One person was killed. 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 flying at low altitude along a beach made S-turns, then turned left over water; the left wing struck the surface, causing a crash. The pilot sustained a head injury and drowned. Toxicology revealed elevated alcohol levels.

Accident Details

According to witnesses, the pilot was flying at a very low altitude while proceeding southbound along a beach, making S-turns. During the final left turn toward the east, the aircraft turned further left toward the north. While turning, the left wing struck the water, causing the aircraft to crash. The aircraft sank in less than one minute. The pilot received a head injury and drowned.

Pilot Information

Toxicology tests conducted on the pilot showed an alcohol level of 0.128% in the blood, 0.193% in the urine, and 0.117% in the gastric fluid. The pilot's last medical certificate was dated February 22, 1983.

Environmental Conditions

Witnesses reported that heavy rain and strong gusty winds began shortly after the plane crashed.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 8 Jun 1985 Ercoupe (eng & Research Corp.) 415-C accident near Daytona Beach, FL?

A pilot flying at low altitude along a beach made S-turns, then turned left over water; the left wing struck the surface, causing a crash. The pilot sustained a head injury and drowned. Toxicology revealed elevated alcohol levels.

Were there any fatalities in the 8 Jun 1985 Ercoupe (eng & Research Corp.) 415-C accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 1 fatality.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 8 Jun 1985 involved an Ercoupe (eng & Research Corp.) 415-C, registration N99018, at Daytona Beach, FL.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X36837. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.