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Passenger Reports Pilot Did Not Turn on Approach, Aircraft Struck Trees (N102LW)

Hancock Village, NY, US

On April 28, 1991, a Piper PA-18-150 (registration N102LW) operated by Lee Wulff was involved in an aviation accident near Hancock Village, NY. One person was killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE LOSS OF AIRCRAFT CONTROL AND SUBSEQUENT COLLISION WITH TREES AFTER THE PILOT BECAME PHYSICALLY INCAPACITATED. 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 pilot-rated passenger on a local flight struck trees during approach. The passenger reported the pilot did not turn toward the runway and descended into trees. Post-mortem examination of the pilot showed coronary arteriosclerosis.

Accident Details

A pilot and a pilot-rated passenger were conducting a local flight. During approach to the airport, the aircraft descended into trees and collided with them.

Passenger Account

The passenger reported after the accident that while approaching the airport, the pilot did not turn toward the runway and instead began descending into the trees. The passenger added half power, but the pilot reduced the power. The passenger then attempted to gain control using the control stick, but found it was "not free." Subsequently, the airplane struck trees.

Post-Mortem Findings

A post-mortem examination of the pilot revealed evidence of coronary arteriosclerosis.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 28 Apr 1991 Piper PA-18-150 accident near Hancock Village, NY?

A pilot and pilot-rated passenger on a local flight struck trees during approach. The passenger reported the pilot did not turn toward the runway and descended into trees. Post-mortem examination of the pilot showed coronary arteriosclerosis.

Were there any fatalities in the 28 Apr 1991 Piper PA-18-150 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 1 fatality.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 28 Apr 1991 involved a Piper PA-18-150, registration N102LW, operated by Lee Wulff, at Hancock Village, NY.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE LOSS OF AIRCRAFT CONTROL AND SUBSEQUENT COLLISION WITH TREES AFTER THE PILOT BECAME PHYSICALLY INCAPACITATED.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X16855. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.