Casualties unknown

Aircraft Stalls During Turn Over Yachts Off Malibu Coast (N9609B)

Malibu, CA, US

On March 27, 1988, a Cessna 172RG (registration N9609B) operated by Long Beach Flying Club was involved in an aviation accident near Malibu, CA. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot reported that while turning at 300 feet AGL to photograph yachts, the aircraft suddenly stalled and struck the water. The pilot heard the stall horn while looking back.

Overview

A pilot stated that the purpose of the flight was to allow a passenger to photograph yachts sailing off the Malibu coast. During the flight, while executing a turn at approximately 300 feet above ground level (AGL) around one of the yachts, the aircraft suddenly stalled. The pilot reported being unable to recover before contacting the water.

Pilot's Account

The pilot indicated that he was straining to look out the back window to try and see the boat when he heard the stall horn. Immediately after, the aircraft stalled and descended into the water. No further details were provided regarding the aircraft type, registration, number of occupants, injuries, or damage.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 27 Mar 1988 Cessna 172RG accident near Malibu, CA?

A pilot reported that while turning at 300 feet AGL to photograph yachts, the aircraft suddenly stalled and struck the water. The pilot heard the stall horn while looking back.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 27 Mar 1988 involved a Cessna 172RG, registration N9609B, operated by Long Beach Flying Club, at Malibu, CA.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X25290. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.