On September 14, 1988, a Piper PA-36-300 (registration N57847) operated by AG Air Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Pulaski, WI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain aircraft control due to in-flight incapacitation from alcohol consumption. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 3 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A pilot died when his aircraft crashed into terrain while descending steeply. Toxicology tests revealed a blood alcohol concentration of 0.21 percent, and his widow noted he had left home intoxicated.
What happened
The aircraft descended at a high rate of speed with a nose-down attitude of approximately 75 degrees before impacting the terrain. The pilot did not survive the accident.
The investigation
Post-accident toxicology testing was conducted on the pilot. The results revealed that his blood alcohol level was 0.21 percent. His widow provided additional context regarding his condition prior to the flight, stating that he had left home at approximately 2100 CST on the night of the accident while in an inebriated condition.
Findings
The pilot's widow reported that after a discussion about his drinking habits, he reportedly stated that this might be the last time he flew. The combination of the steep descent and the high blood alcohol concentration indicates significant impairment during the final phase of flight.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain aircraft control due to in-flight incapacitation from alcohol consumption.
What happened in the 14 Sept 1988 Piper PA-36-300 accident near Pulaski, WI?
A pilot died when his aircraft crashed into terrain while descending steeply. Toxicology tests revealed a blood alcohol concentration of 0.21 percent, and his widow noted he had left home intoxicated.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 14 Sept 1988 involved a Piper PA-36-300, registration N57847, operated by AG Air Inc., at Pulaski, WI.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to maintain aircraft control due to in-flight incapacitation from alcohol consumption.
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