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.
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.