On October 31, 1987, a Cessna 182A (registration N3804D) operated by Hoffman, Don G. was involved in an aviation accident near Laveen, AZ. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot ferrying his aircraft to a private strip lost engine power shortly after takeoff, attempted a precautionary landing on a dirt road, but the left wing struck a saguaro cactus beside the road.
Accident Details
The pilot reported that he was ferrying his aircraft three miles to a private strip. Shortly after takeoff, the engine began losing power. The pilot did not believe he could reach the private strip and therefore attempted a precautionary landing on a dirt road. He stated that he was concentrating so intently on the dirt road that he did not notice a saguaro cactus next to the road. The left wing of the aircraft collided with the cactus.
Environmental Conditions
There was light rainfall at the time of the accident.
Mechanical Status
No mechanical problems were reported prior to this flight.
Pilot Comments
The pilot stated that the use of full carburetor heat could have prevented the loss of engine power.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 31 Oct 1987 Cessna 182A accident near Laveen, AZ?
A pilot ferrying his aircraft to a private strip lost engine power shortly after takeoff, attempted a precautionary landing on a dirt road, but the left wing struck a saguaro cactus beside the road.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 31 Oct 1987 involved a Cessna 182A, registration N3804D, operated by Hoffman, Don G., at Laveen, AZ.
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