Casualties unknown

Aircraft Impacts Terrain During Agricultural Flight, No Preimpact Mechanical Failure Found (N9935P)

Nickerson, KS, US

On July 21, 1987, a Piper PA-36 (registration N9935P) was involved in an aviation accident near Nickerson, KS. 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

An agricultural aircraft was observed pulling up and turning before impacting in a steep nose-down attitude and burning. No preimpact part failure or malfunction was found. The pilot had 8,400 hours of flight time.

Accident Overview

An investigation has been completed into an accident involving an agricultural aircraft. During the accident flight, the aircraft was observed completing a swath run to the east before pulling up and beginning a turn back to the west. A witness then saw a large cloud of smoke. The witness did not see spray coming from the aircraft during the final swath run, although her view was limited by foliage and buildings. Additionally, no interruption of engine power was noted.

Impact and Destruction

The investigation revealed that the aircraft impacted terrain in a steep nose-down attitude and subsequently burned. No preimpact part failure or malfunction was found according to the investigative findings.

Pilot Information

According to FAA medical records, the pilot had a total flight time of 8,400 hours. No other pilot details were provided in the investigation source.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X31596. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.