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Aircraft Observed in Dive Shortly After Takeoff; Left Engine Magneto Switch Found Off (N9UP)

Smithfield, PA, US

On September 22, 1990, a Beech 95-B55 (registration N9UP) operated by Great American Aviation Inc was involved in an aviation accident near Smithfield, PA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE FAILURE OF BOTH PILOTS TO MAINTAIN AIRCRAFT CONTROL WHILE CONDUCTING TRAINING MANEUVERS AT AN ALTITUDE THAT PRECLUDED A SAFE 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

Witnesses heard pilots discussing training shortly before takeoff. Less than six minutes later, the aircraft was seen diving into the ground. The left engine magneto switch was in the off position. Both engines showed no discrepancies after teardown.

Preflight Discussion and Takeoff

Witnesses reported hearing the pilots discussing the possibility of conducting pilot training prior to departure. The aircraft then took off.

Observed Events Shortly After Departure

Less than 6 minutes after takeoff, the airplane was observed in a dive that continued until ground impact. During this time, the sound of the engine(s) was changing.

Post-Accident Examination

Following the accident, investigators found the left engine magneto switch in the off position. Teardown examinations of both engines were conducted and did not reveal any discrepancies.

Pilot Qualifications

The other pilot (not specified further in the source) held a commercial pilot certificate with airplane single- and multi-engine land ratings, an instrument rating, and a flight instructor certificate with an airplane single-engine rating.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 22 Sept 1990 Beech 95-B55 accident near Smithfield, PA?

Witnesses heard pilots discussing training shortly before takeoff. Less than six minutes later, the aircraft was seen diving into the ground. The left engine magneto switch was in the off position. Both engines showed no discrepancies after teardown.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 22 Sept 1990 involved a Beech 95-B55, registration N9UP, operated by Great American Aviation Inc, at Smithfield, PA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE FAILURE OF BOTH PILOTS TO MAINTAIN AIRCRAFT CONTROL WHILE CONDUCTING TRAINING MANEUVERS AT AN ALTITUDE THAT PRECLUDED A SAFE RECOVERY.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X24348. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.