FlightFinder
Check my flight
Casualties unknown

Stall and Crash During Takeoff from Private Grass Strip (N2926D)

Conner, MT, US

On November 27, 1987, a Cessna 170B (registration N2926D) operated by Lowell Ray Honey, Jr. was involved in an aviation accident near Conner, MT. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed during takeoff, which resulted in a stall and subsequent collision with terrain. 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 2026-06-22Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft lost power shortly after takeoff from a private grass strip. The pilot attempted to glide over a ravine but stalled and crashed, with no mechanical failures found.

What happened

The accident occurred during the initial climb phase of flight from a private, unpaved grass airstrip. Shortly after becoming airborne, the pilot reported that the engine began to lose power while the aircraft was at an altitude of approximately 20 to 30 feet above ground level (AGL). With a ravine directly ahead in the flight path, the pilot attempted to extend the glide distance to reach the far side of the terrain feature. However, the aircraft lost lift and stalled before clearing the obstacle, resulting in a crash into the ravine.

The investigation

Following the accident, investigators examined the aircraft for any signs of pre-impact mechanical issues. The examination revealed no evidence of mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have contributed to the loss of power prior to the impact.

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed during takeoff, which resulted in a stall and subsequent collision with terrain.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 27 Nov 1987 Cessna 170B accident near Conner, MT?

An aircraft lost power shortly after takeoff from a private grass strip. The pilot attempted to glide over a ravine but stalled and crashed, with no mechanical failures found.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 27 Nov 1987 involved a Cessna 170B, registration N2926D, operated by Lowell Ray Honey, Jr., at Conner, MT.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed during takeoff, which resulted in a stall and subsequent collision with terrain.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X32521. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.