Casualties unknown

Pilot and Passenger Fatally Injured in Accident Involving Unregistered Aircraft (N2911Z)

Scranton, ND, US

On April 24, 1990, a Piper PA-22-160 (registration N2911Z) operated by Ruggles, David J. was involved in an aviation accident near Scranton, ND. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: PILOT FACTOR IN THAT HE FAILED TO MAINTAIN AIRCRAFT CONTROL WHILE PERFORMING AN INFLIGHT MANEUVER. 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 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot lost control of his aircraft during a personal flight from his farm airstrip, resulting in fatal injuries to both occupants. The aircraft had been reported destroyed months earlier and was in poor condition.

Accident Overview

During a personal pleasure flight departing from his farm airstrip, the pilot lost control of the aircraft, which subsequently crashed into a field. Both the pilot and a passenger sustained fatal injuries, and the aircraft was destroyed. No fire occurred after the impact.

Aircraft Information

According to Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) records, the aircraft's registration had been returned approximately nine months prior to the accident. The registration return documentation stated that the aircraft had been destroyed or scrapped. No information about the aircraft make, model, or registration number was provided in the source.

Pilot and Maintenance Issues

The pilot was not current on his medical certificate and biennial flight review at the time of the accident. Additionally, the aircraft was not current on its annual inspection. Examination of the aircraft's records and physical condition revealed that the aircraft was in poor condition and was unairworthy. Furthermore, the aircraft was being operated with auto fuel, and no conversion had been performed for its use.

Examination Findings

An examination of the aircraft and its records found no evidence that any material condition contributed to the accident. Despite the poor overall condition and use of unapproved fuel, no specific mechanical or structural failure was identified as a factor in the loss of control.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X22894. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.