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Witnesses Report Steep Left Turn and Terrain Impact After Takeoff (N9871C)

Locust Grove, GA, US

On August 11, 1990, a North American T-6G (registration N9871C) was involved in an aviation accident near Locust Grove, GA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT-IN-COMMAND'S FAILURE TO MAINTAIN AIRCRAFT CONTROL DURING MANEUVERING FLIGHT, ALLOWING THE AIRPLANE TO STALL WITHOUT SUFFICIENT ALTITUDE FOR RECOVERY. 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

After takeoff, witnesses observed the airplane enter a steep left turn, level its wings momentarily, then roll into terrain. The engine was heard running until impact, and no mechanical failure was found.

Accident Details

Shortly after takeoff, multiple witnesses reported that the airplane entered a steep, nose-high left turn. One witness stated that the pilot "honked it up" and "really yanked it back." When the airplane reached an altitude of approximately 300 to 400 feet above ground level, the wings leveled and "wagged," after which the airplane rolled into the terrain in a steep, nose-low attitude.

Fuel and Engine Information

Reportedly, the airplane had been topped with fuel prior to takeoff. All witnesses stated that the engine was running all the way to ground impact.

Examination Results

An examination of the wreckage did not reveal evidence of mechanical malfunction or failure.

Loss of control in flight

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 11 Aug 1990 North American T-6G accident near Locust Grove, GA?

After takeoff, witnesses observed the airplane enter a steep left turn, level its wings momentarily, then roll into terrain. The engine was heard running until impact, and no mechanical failure was found.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 11 Aug 1990 involved a North American T-6G, registration N9871C, at Locust Grove, GA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE PILOT-IN-COMMAND'S FAILURE TO MAINTAIN AIRCRAFT CONTROL DURING MANEUVERING FLIGHT, ALLOWING THE AIRPLANE TO STALL WITHOUT SUFFICIENT ALTITUDE FOR RECOVERY.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X23886. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.