On November 4, 1990, a Bellanca 8KCAB (registration N5039K) operated by Richard S. Russell was involved in an aviation accident near Buckland, MA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's decision to perform aerobatic maneuvers at low altitude, which resulted in the airplane striking trees. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot performing inverted maneuvers for a birthday celebration struck trees while flying at approximately 50 feet above ground level near the event site.
What happened
The pilot of N5039K was requested to perform aerobatic maneuvers in support of a birthday party. Departing from an airport in close proximity to the celebration, the aircraft flew over the designated area. Witnesses reported that the pilot approached the location from the south at an altitude of approximately 50 feet. During a low-altitude roll intended to achieve an inverted attitude, the airplane struck a stand of trees.
The investigation
The source material does not provide specific details regarding mechanical examination or post-crash analysis findings beyond the witness account of the impact.
Findings
The accident occurred during the performance of aerobatic maneuvers at very low altitude. Aerobatic maneuvering at low level contributed to the loss of control and subsequent impact with terrain obstacles.
Probable cause
The pilot's decision to perform aerobatic maneuvers at low altitude, which resulted in the airplane striking trees.
What happened in the 4 Nov 1990 Bellanca 8KCAB accident near Buckland, MA?
A pilot performing inverted maneuvers for a birthday celebration struck trees while flying at approximately 50 feet above ground level near the event site.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 4 Nov 1990 involved a Bellanca 8KCAB, registration N5039K, operated by Richard S. Russell, at Buckland, MA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's decision to perform aerobatic maneuvers at low altitude, which resulted in the airplane striking trees.
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