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Inadvertent Stall During Low-Altitude Photo Flight Leads to Crash (N6069J)

Dalhart, TX, US

On May 14, 1988, a Cessna 182P (registration N6069J) was involved in an aviation accident near Dalhart, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Inadvertent stall resulting in loss of control. 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 local flight circling at low altitude and reduced airspeed over farmland stalled inadvertently after the stall warning horn sounded, resulting in loss of control and impact with the ground.

Accident Overview

A local flight conducting a photo session over farmland experienced an inadvertent stall, leading to a loss of control and subsequent crash. The aircraft was circling at low altitude and reduced airspeed above farm equipment and level terrain while a passenger in the rear seat took photographs.

Sequence of Events

According to a passenger seated in the right front seat, the stall warning horn was heard just prior to the accident. The aircraft entered an inadvertent stall, causing a loss of control. It impacted the ground on the right wingtip before coming to rest in a doubled-over position, with the inverted cabin area facing rearward underneath the aft fuselage.

Probable Cause

The probable cause of the accident was an inadvertent stall, which resulted in a loss of control.

Loss of control in flightAerodynamic stall

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 14 May 1988 Cessna 182P accident near Dalhart, TX?

A local flight circling at low altitude and reduced airspeed over farmland stalled inadvertently after the stall warning horn sounded, resulting in loss of control and impact with the ground.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 14 May 1988 involved a Cessna 182P, registration N6069J, at Dalhart, TX.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Inadvertent stall resulting in loss of control

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X25698. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.