On June 4, 1988, a Cessna 180 (registration N9124C) operated by Anderson, Jerry P. was involved in an aviation accident near Lakeport, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain aircraft control during a banner release attempt, which resulted in a stall and collision with terrain. Contributing factor: The banner release mechanism setup did not comply with the STC. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During a banner towing operation, the pilot attempted to release the banner but it failed to disconnect. The pilot turned to inspect the issue, causing the airplane to stall and collide with terrain. Inspection revealed the release mechanism setup did not comply with the STC.
What happened
The accident occurred during a banner towing operation. The pilot attempted to release the banner from the aircraft. When the banner failed to disconnect, the pilot turned toward the rear of the airplane to inspect the problem. This maneuver caused the airplane to stall. Before the pilot could regain control, the airplane collided with the terrain.
The investigation
Post-accident inspection of the banner release mechanism revealed that the setup did not comply with the Supplemental Type Certificate (STC).
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain aircraft control during a banner release attempt, which resulted in a stall and collision with terrain. Contributing factor: The banner release mechanism setup did not comply with the STC.
What happened in the 4 Jun 1988 Cessna 180 accident near Lakeport, CA?
During a banner towing operation, the pilot attempted to release the banner but it failed to disconnect. The pilot turned to inspect the issue, causing the airplane to stall and collide with terrain. Inspection revealed the release mechanism setup did not comply with the STC.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 4 Jun 1988 involved a Cessna 180, registration N9124C, operated by Anderson, Jerry P., at Lakeport, CA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to maintain aircraft control during a banner release attempt, which resulted in a stall and collision with terrain. Contributing factor: The banner release mechanism setup did not comply with the STC.
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