Casualties unknown

Airplane Stalls During Low-Level Pipeline Search, Strikes Tree and Ground (N4695Y)

Port Lavaca, TX, US

On April 17, 1991, a Piper PA-18-150 (registration N4695Y) operated by Abner M. Ussery was involved in an aviation accident near Port Lavaca, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S INADVERTENT STALL AT AN ALTITUDE TOO LOW FOR RECOVERY. A FACTOR WAS THE PILOT'S LOW PASS. 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 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

An airplane searching for a pipe leak in an oil field executed a steep left turn, stalled, and descended nose-low into a tree and the ground. Investigation found adequate fuel, control continuity, and no mechanical malfunction.

Accident Sequence

The airplane was conducting a low-altitude search for a pipe leak in an oil field when it entered a steep left turn. During this maneuver, the aircraft stalled and subsequently descended nose-low, colliding with a tree and the ground.

Investigation Findings

Post-accident inspection of the wreckage revealed adequate fuel on board, continuity of flight controls, and no evidence of a mechanical malfunction. The engine was disassembled and examined, but no discrepancies were found that could have contributed to the accident.

Witness Account

A witness on the ground observed the airplane flying at low altitude and noted that it appeared to be slowing down. The witness watched as the airplane performed a circular path before descending to the ground.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X16792. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.