On April 30, 1986, a Cessna 180 (registration N6559A) operated by John B. Silker was involved in an aviation accident near Brainerd, MN. 2 people were killed. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A floatplane was observed descending nose-low before hitting a lake. The pilot reported a nose-up approach with partial power but no memory of the impact. Neither occupant wore seatbelts; both were thrown through the windshield. The passenger, a non-swimmer, drowned.
Incident Overview
A floatplane accident occurred during an approach to a lake. A witness reported seeing the aircraft descending in an abnormal nose-low attitude moments before it struck the water.
Pilot Account
The pilot stated that they were making the approach to the lake in a nose-up attitude with partial power applied. The pilot has no memory of any events leading up to the accident but recalled not hearing the stall warning at any point.
Post-Impact Events
Upon impact, both the pilot and the passenger were thrown through the windshield. Neither occupant was wearing a seatbelt. The passenger, who could not swim, subsequently drowned.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 30 Apr 1986 Cessna 180 accident near Brainerd, MN?
A floatplane was observed descending nose-low before hitting a lake. The pilot reported a nose-up approach with partial power but no memory of the impact. Neither occupant wore seatbelts; both were thrown through the windshield. The passenger, a non-swimmer, drowned.
Were there any fatalities in the 30 Apr 1986 Cessna 180 accident?
The accident was fatal, resulting in 2 fatalities.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 30 Apr 1986 involved a Cessna 180, registration N6559A, operated by John B. Silker, at Brainerd, MN.
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