1 fatality

Pilot Dies After Medical Emergency During Landing Practice (N811CM)

Morgantown, WV, US

On June 7, 1988, a Piper PA-31 (registration N811CM) was involved in an aviation accident near Morgantown, WV. One person was killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot died from ventricular fibrillation, secondary to severe atherosclerotic coronary artery disease. 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 64-year-old pilot practicing full stop landings experienced a medical emergency on roll-out, slumped over, and later died. A safety pilot took control and called for medical assistance.

Incident Overview

A 64-year-old pilot was practicing full stop landings on Runway 18 with a safety pilot on board. During the third landing, while the aircraft was on roll-out at a speed of approximately 40 knots, the pilot slumped forward. The pilot was restrained by the shoulder harness.

Response

The safety pilot immediately took control of the aircraft and brought it to a stop. The safety pilot then radioed for medical assistance and subsequently taxied the aircraft to the ramp.

Medical Outcome

The pilot was transported to a hospital, where he later died. A pathological examination determined that the cause of death was ventricular fibrillation, secondary to severe atherosclerotic coronary artery disease.

Additional Details

The accident occurred during routine practice maneuvers. No other injuries were reported. The safety pilot's prompt actions ensured the aircraft was safely stopped and secured.

Probable cause

The pilot died from ventricular fibrillation, secondary to severe atherosclerotic coronary artery disease.

All Piper PA-31 accidents →

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 7 Jun 1988 Piper PA-31 accident near Morgantown, WV?

A 64-year-old pilot practicing full stop landings experienced a medical emergency on roll-out, slumped over, and later died. A safety pilot took control and called for medical assistance.

Were there any fatalities in the 7 Jun 1988 Piper PA-31 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 1 fatality.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 7 Jun 1988 involved a Piper PA-31, registration N811CM, at Morgantown, WV.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot died from ventricular fibrillation, secondary to severe atherosclerotic coronary artery disease.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X25877. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.