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Pilot Intentionally Stalls Airplane into Mountain Face in Chiricahua Mountains (N3431S)

Portal, AZ, US

On November 4, 1990, a Cessna 182G (registration N3431S) operated by Young Builders was involved in an aviation accident near Portal, AZ. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: FAILURE OF THE PILOT TO MAINTAIN PROPER ALTITUDE. 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 and passenger departed Douglas, Arizona, to locate a business acquaintance hunting deer. While circling a canyon, the pilot inadvertently entered a narrow blind canyon and intentionally stalled the airplane into the mountain face. Both occupants were seriously injured but walked out and were rescued four days later.

Incident

A pilot and a passenger departed from Douglas, Arizona, with the intention of locating a business acquaintance who was deer hunting in the Chiricahua Mountains. While circling the area, the pilot inadvertently flew into a narrow, blind canyon. Realizing the error, he immediately turned the airplane and began to climb. Recognizing that a crash was imminent, he intentionally stalled the airplane into the face of the mountain.

Outcome

Both occupants sustained serious injuries. Despite their injuries, they were able to walk out of the area and were rescued four days later. The source does not specify the aircraft type, registration, or extent of damage.

Loss of control in flight

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 4 Nov 1990 Cessna 182G accident near Portal, AZ?

A pilot and passenger departed Douglas, Arizona, to locate a business acquaintance hunting deer. While circling a canyon, the pilot inadvertently entered a narrow blind canyon and intentionally stalled the airplane into the mountain face. Both occupants were seriously injured but walked out and were rescued four days…

Were there any fatalities in the 4 Nov 1990 Cessna 182G accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 4 Nov 1990 involved a Cessna 182G, registration N3431S, operated by Young Builders, at Portal, AZ.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

FAILURE OF THE PILOT TO MAINTAIN PROPER ALTITUDE.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X24636. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.