On December 21, 1988, a Piper PA-24-250 (registration N751SP) was involved in an aviation accident near Elephant Butte, NM. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
While returning from maintenance, a pilot performed a low pass near his home overlooking Elephant Butte Reservoir. During a steep turn, the left wing struck the water, separated, and the aircraft cartwheeled and sank.
Event Description
A pilot was returning from having maintenance performed on the aircraft. During the return flight, he executed a low pass by his home, which was located on a point of land overlooking Elephant Butte Reservoir in New Mexico. While the aircraft was in a steep turn during the maneuver, the left wing struck the water surface. The impact caused the wing to separate from the aircraft. The aircraft then cartwheeled and subsequently sank.
Weather and Witnesses
At the time of the event, weather conditions were visual meteorological conditions (VMC). The water surface was described as smooth and glassy. According to witnesses, this low pass maneuver was commonly performed by the pilot when returning home.
What happened in the 21 Dec 1988 Piper PA-24-250 accident near Elephant Butte, NM?
While returning from maintenance, a pilot performed a low pass near his home overlooking Elephant Butte Reservoir. During a steep turn, the left wing struck the water, separated, and the aircraft cartwheeled and sank.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 21 Dec 1988 involved a Piper PA-24-250, registration N751SP, at Elephant Butte, NM.
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