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Casualties unknown

Private Pilot and Two Passengers Involved in Lake Accident During Sightseeing Flight (N78195)

Bridgman, MI, US

On March 16, 1991, a Cessna 172K (registration N78195) operated by Charles F. Harrell & Partners was involved in an aviation accident near Bridgman, MI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO CORRECT A DESCENT. A FACTOR IN THE ACCIDENT WAS THE PILOT'S MANEUVERING AT AN IMPROPER 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 private pilot and two passengers were sightseeing along a lakeshore when the airplane struck the lake during a pullup after a steep turn.

Overview

A private pilot and two passengers were engaged in sightseeing along a lakeshore. The aircraft was flying approximately 300 feet above the lake surface and about 150 yards offshore.

Sequence of Events

The front seat passenger was looking to the rear and talking to the other passenger when the pilot initiated a 360-degree turn away from the beach. The front seat passenger sensed a steep bank and a descent, then turned to look out the windshield. Seeing the nose below the horizon, the passenger pulled back on the yoke and applied power in an attempt to break the descent. The airplane struck the lake during the pullup.

Findings

The accident occurred during sightseeing flight along a lakeshore. The pilot initiated a turn, and the front seat passenger took control inputs before the aircraft struck the water.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 16 Mar 1991 Cessna 172K accident near Bridgman, MI?

A private pilot and two passengers were sightseeing along a lakeshore when the airplane struck the lake during a pullup after a steep turn.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 16 Mar 1991 involved a Cessna 172K, registration N78195, operated by Charles F. Harrell & Partners, at Bridgman, MI.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO CORRECT A DESCENT. A FACTOR IN THE ACCIDENT WAS THE PILOT'S MANEUVERING AT AN IMPROPER ALTITUDE.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X16571. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.