Casualties unknown

1985-07-21: Bellanca 8KCAB (N5504B) — Fall River, MA

Fall River, MA, US

On July 21, 1985, a Bellanca 8KCAB (registration N5504B) was involved in an aviation accident near Fall River, MA. 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 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

Witnesses observed an aircraft picking up an aerial advertising banner, climbing steeply to 150 feet, nearly stopping, rolling left and right, then crashing. The pilot was not on the FAA waiver for banner towing.

Accident Overview

According to witness statements, the aircraft involved in the accident was performing an aerial pickup of an advertising banner. After the pickup, the aircraft climbed steeply away from the ground. Witnesses reported that the engine sounds were normal during this phase of flight.

Sequence of Events

The aircraft was observed climbing to an altitude of approximately 150 feet. At that point, it nearly came to a stop in the air. Subsequently, the aircraft rolled left, then right, and ultimately crashed to the ground. One witness stated that the banner remained attached to the aircraft as it dove toward the ground.

Pilot and Waiver Information

The pilot of the aircraft was not listed on the certificate of waiver issued by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for banner towing operations. The holder of the waiver had been authorized for such activities, but the pilot in command was not among those named on the waiver.

Investigation Notes

The accident investigation is based solely on witness observations and the discrepancy regarding the pilot's listing on the FAA waiver. No further details about the aircraft, occupants, or injuries have been reported in the source material.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X37245. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.