No fatalities

Aircraft Ground Incident During Landing Attempt (N8641V)

Elizabethton, TN, US

On May 10, 1988, a Bellanca 8GCBC (registration N8641V) operated by Moody Bible Institute-chicago was involved in an aviation accident near Elizabethton, TN. No fatalities were reported. 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 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A commercial pilot experienced a loss of control during a landing attempt, resulting in a collision with a 4.5-to-5-foot rise in the ground, collapsing the left main gear and breaking left wing spars. No injuries were reported.

Incident Overview

A flight was being conducted to refamiliarize a commercial pilot with the airplane prior to completing the remainder of the training curriculum. One takeoff and landing had been completed without incident.

Approach and Landing

During the second approach to landing, the approach was reported as normal with the airspeed somewhat above 1.3 Vs. The pilot flared the aircraft to a three-point attitude, and the wheels either touched down or brushed the runway. At this point, the right wing was lifted up and could not be controlled by use of the ailerons.

Loss of Control and Collision

The aircraft turned about 45 degrees relative to the runway, and full power was applied. The wheels then collided with a rise in the ground measuring 4½ to 5 feet in height, causing the aircraft to turn back toward the runway. The left main gear collapsed, and the left wing spars were broken.

Injuries

No injuries were reported.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 10 May 1988 Bellanca 8GCBC accident near Elizabethton, TN?

A commercial pilot experienced a loss of control during a landing attempt, resulting in a collision with a 4.5-to-5-foot rise in the ground, collapsing the left main gear and breaking left wing spars. No injuries were reported.

Were there any fatalities in the 10 May 1988 Bellanca 8GCBC accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 10 May 1988 involved a Bellanca 8GCBC, registration N8641V, operated by Moody Bible Institute-chicago, at Elizabethton, TN.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X25611. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.