Casualties unknown

Witness observes low-altitude maneuver before aircraft crash (N9498D)

Venango, NE, US

On February 22, 1987, a Piper PA-18 (registration N9498D) operated by Larry Dudden was involved in an aviation accident near Venango, NE. 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 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

A witness reported seeing an airplane fly over his property, turn around at low altitude, and then crash after the left wing dropped.

What happened

A witness observed an airplane flying over his property, traveling from north to south. The pilot waved to the witness during this pass. Shortly thereafter, the aircraft reversed direction and returned toward the north at a low altitude.

As the airplane approached, the witness heard the engine power increase. Immediately following this, the left wing dropped significantly. The witness then heard the sound of the aircraft striking the ground. He did not see the actual moment of impact.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X30298. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.