Aircraft collision with terrain during uncontrolled descent

Casualties unknown • Roscommon, MI, US

An aircraft collided with the ground following an uncontrolled descent and a multiple-turn spin, according to witness accounts.

What happened

The aircraft entered an uncontrolled descent before colliding with the terrain. Witnesses on the scene observed the airplane undergo a sudden climb followed by one wing dropping, which led to a spin into the ground. One witness, a pilot-rated individual flying another aircraft, reported observing a multiple turn spin occurring prior to the impact.

Regarding the pilot's condition, the pilot had been treated and released from a hospital emergency room for a thermal injury (sunburn) six days before the accident. Additionally, the pilot had spent a full day canoeing with friends immediately preceding the event, involving further sun exposure.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1989-07-08 Piper PA-18 accident near Roscommon, MI?

An aircraft collided with the ground following an uncontrolled descent and a multiple-turn spin, according to witness accounts.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1989-07-08 involved a Piper PA-18, registration N2336J, at Roscommon, MI.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

LOSS OF CONTROL IN FLIGHT WHILE MANEUVERING AND THE FAILURE TO PERFORM REMEDIAL ACTION BY THE PIC.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X28756. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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