On September 26, 1987, a Beech 23 (registration N2330Q) operated by Ben Casper was involved in an aviation accident near Basin City, WA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain adequate clearance from obstacles, specifically a vehicle with an open hood located beneath power lines, during a low pass for a potential off-airport landing. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During a low approach for a potential off-airport landing near a farm, the pilot attempted to clear power lines but struck a parked vehicle with an open hood, causing the aircraft to contact the ground and slide.
What happened
The pilot was conducting a low pass over the ground in preparation for a possible off-airport landing adjacent to his farm. During this low approach, the pilot observed power lines ahead in the flight path. In an effort to clear these obstacles, the pilot pushed forward on the controls to descend beneath them.
However, a wrecked vehicle was positioned below the power lines with its hood raised. The aircraft's nose gear struck the open hood of the vehicle. Following this impact, the aircraft contacted the ground and slid to a stop.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the sequence of events leading to the ground contact. Examination revealed that the nose gear made initial contact with the elevated hood of a stationary vehicle before the rest of the aircraft impacted the terrain.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain adequate clearance from obstacles, specifically a vehicle with an open hood located beneath power lines, during a low pass for a potential off-airport landing.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 26 Sept 1987 Beech 23 accident near Basin City, WA?
During a low approach for a potential off-airport landing near a farm, the pilot attempted to clear power lines but struck a parked vehicle with an open hood, causing the aircraft to contact the ground and slide.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 26 Sept 1987 involved a Beech 23, registration N2330Q, operated by Ben Casper, at Basin City, WA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to maintain adequate clearance from obstacles, specifically a vehicle with an open hood located beneath power lines, during a low pass for a potential off-airport landing.
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