What happened
The accident occurred when an aircraft entered a steep turn while operating at low altitude above a series of fish ponds. Witnesses observed the plane circling the area and performing a dive once before attempting a second pass. During this second approach, the aircraft executed a short, steep turn that led to a twisting descent into the water.
A passenger aboard the flight reported that the group was flying approximately 100 to 150 feet above the ponds when the plane stalled and nose-dived. The passenger noted that the pilot warned him they were going down and instructed him to hold on, stating an intention to hit the water rather than the bank.
The investigation
Examination of the pilot's credentials revealed he held a third-class student pilot certificate and medical certificate dated November 19, 1981. Toxicological analysis provided critical insights into the pilot's condition at the time of the crash. Blood tests indicated a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08%, while urine samples showed a level of 0.138% (138 mg/dL).
Additionally, laboratory reports detected small amounts of marijuana metabolites in the pilot's urine, with levels suggesting use two or more days prior to the accident. These findings pointed to significant impairment as a factor in the loss of control.
Findings
The primary factors contributing to this incident were the pilot's decision to operate an aircraft while impaired by alcohol and marijuana, combined with the physical effects of alcohol on motor skills and judgment. The low-altitude maneuvering over water likely exacerbated the risk, leaving little margin for error during the stall.
3 fatal, not injured