On June 21, 1986, a Cessna 120 (registration N89789) was involved in an aviation accident near Marlton, NJ. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An aircraft crashed into trees about 10 minutes after takeoff while performing aerobatics. Witnesses observed a loop and recovery from descent. Toxicology tests showed elevated blood alcohol levels in both occupants. The aircraft was not certificated for aerobatic flight.
Accident Details
About 10 minutes after takeoff, the aircraft struck trees and crashed while the pilots were conducting aerobatic maneuvers. No preimpact part failure or malfunction was identified.
Witness Accounts
Witnesses reported that aerobatics were being performed at an altitude of approximately 500 feet above ground level. They stated that the pilots executed an overhead maneuver (loop) and were recovering from a descent when the aircraft hit the trees.
Toxicology Findings
Toxicology analyses revealed blood alcohol levels of 0.246% in the left seat occupant and 0.218% in the right seat occupant.
Aircraft Information
The aircraft was not certificated for aerobatic flight.