Casualties unknown

Engine Failure and Wire Strike During Forced Landing in Dallas Residential Area (N6608V)

Dallas, TX, US

On June 26, 1990, a Bellanca 17-30A (registration N6608V) operated by Martin, Reagan M. was involved in an aviation accident near Dallas, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE INITIAL PARTIAL LOSS OF ENGINE POWER, FOLLOWED BY THE TOTAL LOSS OF ENGINE POWER AND THE STRIKING OF A HIDDEN SET OF TRANSMISSION WIRES. 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 pilot returning to Dallas Red Bird Airport due to landing gear problems experienced an engine failure and attempted a landing on a residential street. The aircraft struck transmission wires, damaging landing gear, and was consumed by post-crash fire.

Flight Details

The flight originated from Dallas and was destined for Texarkana, Texas. During the flight, the pilot encountered landing gear problems and elected to return to Dallas Red Bird Airport.

Landing Gear and Engine Issues

While maneuvering on the base leg, the engine lost partial power. Power returned momentarily but failed completely within seconds.

Emergency Landing Attempt

The pilot attempted a landing on a street in a residential area. During short final, the airplane struck a hidden set of transmission wires.

Impact with Wires and Aftermath

Striking the wires resulted in damage to the right main landing gear and nose gear. After the airplane struck the wires, its flight path angle and aircraft attitude altered dramatically. After the airplane came to its final resting place, it was consumed by post-crash fire. Neither occupant attempted to exit the aircraft.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 26 Jun 1990 Bellanca 17-30A accident near Dallas, TX?

A pilot returning to Dallas Red Bird Airport due to landing gear problems experienced an engine failure and attempted a landing on a residential street. The aircraft struck transmission wires, damaging landing gear, and was consumed by post-crash fire.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 26 Jun 1990 involved a Bellanca 17-30A, registration N6608V, operated by Martin, Reagan M., at Dallas, TX.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE INITIAL PARTIAL LOSS OF ENGINE POWER, FOLLOWED BY THE TOTAL LOSS OF ENGINE POWER AND THE STRIKING OF A HIDDEN SET OF TRANSMISSION WIRES.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X23418. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.