On July 2, 1988, a Bellanca 7GCBC (registration N5041J) operated by No. County Aerial Advertising was involved in an aviation accident near Laconia, NH. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot reported that after a banner pickup, the tow line became twisted. On downwind, the aircraft entered a rapid descent that could not be corrected even after releasing the banner and adding power. Another pilot reported variable winds and windshear.
Incident Details
A pilot reported that during a banner tow operation, the tow line became twisted after the initial pickup. The pilot opted to return and release the banner. While on the downwind leg of the traffic pattern, the aircraft began a rapid descent that the pilot could not counteract, even after releasing the banner and adding engine power.
Wind Report
Another pilot who was also flying in the traffic pattern provided a report on the wind conditions. According to this pilot, the wind direction was variable, shifting between 260 and 350 degrees. Wind speed also varied, ranging from calm to gusting at 12–15 knots. Additionally, this pilot reported experiencing windshear during the climbout phase of flight.