Casualties unknown

Student Pilot Crashes After Low-Altitude Aerobatic Maneuver on Takeoff (N8062A)

Asheville, NC, US

On December 19, 1986, a Cessna 170B (registration N8062A) operated by Gail L. Otto was involved in an aviation accident near Asheville, NC. 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 student pilot and one passenger were aboard an aircraft that crashed during initial climb from a private grass airstrip after performing a wing-over maneuver at low altitude. The wreckage was consumed by a ground fire.

Accident Details

During the initial climb from a private grass airstrip, witnesses described the aircraft performing a 'wing-over' aerobatic maneuver at low altitude. The aircraft subsequently impacted the ground at a near-vertical attitude. A ground fire ensued, consuming the wreckage.

Pilot and Occupants

The pilot held a student pilot certificate and had one passenger aboard. No further details about the occupants were provided.

Prior Observations

Local pilots had observed the student pilot violating Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs) and reported these activities to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). However, there was no record of any investigation or regulatory action taken against the student pilot.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 19 Dec 1986 Cessna 170B accident near Asheville, NC?

A student pilot and one passenger were aboard an aircraft that crashed during initial climb from a private grass airstrip after performing a wing-over maneuver at low altitude. The wreckage was consumed by a ground fire.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 19 Dec 1986 involved a Cessna 170B, registration N8062A, operated by Gail L. Otto, at Asheville, NC.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X35296. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.