Casualties unknown

Pilot Loses Control of Piper on Landing Approach, Strikes Pole (N4306M)

Van Nuys, CA, US

On November 19, 1988, a Piper PA-28R-201T (registration N4306M) operated by Panzarino, Anthony V was involved in an aviation accident near Van Nuys, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot lost control of the aircraft while descending for landing and collided with a pole. 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 Piper aircraft lost control while descending for landing on Runway 16R, banking right at 50 feet AGL, striking a pole, then sliding into a fence. No mechanical failures were reported.

Accident Details

The pilot was cleared to land behind a King Air on Runway 16R. During the descent, as the aircraft reached approximately 50 feet above ground level near the threshold, the pilot entered an uncontrolled right bank. The bank turned the aircraft 90 degrees relative to the runway, and it subsequently struck a pole. After hitting the pole, the aircraft collided with the ground off the runway and slid into a chain-link fence.

Pilot Statement

The pilot reported making a normal approach and attempting to touch down on the threshold. He noted that the King Air's approach appeared steep, with a glide slope greater than 3 degrees. The point where the King Air touched down is unknown.

Witness Account

A witness observed that the Piper was only a few seconds behind the landing King Air.

Mechanical Condition

No mechanical failures or malfunctions of the aircraft were reported.

Probable cause

The pilot lost control of the aircraft while descending for landing and collided with a pole.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 19 Nov 1988 Piper PA-28R-201T accident near Van Nuys, CA?

A Piper aircraft lost control while descending for landing on Runway 16R, banking right at 50 feet AGL, striking a pole, then sliding into a fence. No mechanical failures were reported.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 19 Nov 1988 involved a Piper PA-28R-201T, registration N4306M, operated by Panzarino, Anthony V, at Van Nuys, CA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot lost control of the aircraft while descending for landing and collided with a pole.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X27285. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.