Casualties unknown

Pilot's Arm Broken by Airstream After Crew Door Opens Mid-Climb (N4630N)

Atlanta, GA, US

On September 11, 1987, a Cessna 402C (registration N4630N) operated by Bankair,inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Atlanta, GA. 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

During climb to cruise at 4,000 ft MSL, a pilot heard a whistling noise, found the crew door unsecured, and sustained a broken arm when the door opened and pulled his arm outside.

Incident Overview

While climbing to cruise altitude at approximately 4,000 feet mean sea level, the pilot heard a whistling noise and noticed that the crew door adjacent to his seat was not completely secured. As he attempted to properly secure the door, it came open, yanking his left arm outside the aircraft. The airstream forced his arm backwards against the door frame, resulting in a broken arm.

Pilot Actions and Outcome

The pilot advised air traffic control of his situation and received vectors back to his departure point. He subsequently made a successful landing. No other factual details about the aircraft, its registration, or the pilot's identity are provided in the source.

Reported Injuries and Damage

The pilot's left arm was broken. No damage to the aircraft or injuries to any other persons are mentioned in the source.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X31996. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.