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Casualties unknown

Low Approach Turn Leads to Ground Impact During Landing Area Survey (N2584V)

Whiskey Gulch, AK, US

On November 7, 1991, a Cessna 170 (registration N2584V) operated by Randolph R. Turner was involved in an aviation accident near Whiskey Gulch, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO MAINTAIN AN AIRSPEED ABOVE STALLING DURING MANEUVERING FLIGHT. A FACTOR RELATING TO THE ACCIDENT WAS OPERATING AT AN ALTITUDE INADEQUATE IN WHICH TO EFFECT RECOVERY. 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

While surveying an intended landing area, the pilot performed a low approach over water, turned toward the beach at 200 feet AGL, then experienced an airspeed drop and descent. Despite power application and wings leveled, the airplane struck the ground. Wind was light and variable.

Event Description

During a flight intended to survey an intended landing area, the pilot in command executed a low approach. The maneuver involved a turn from over the water toward the beach at an altitude of 200 feet above ground level (AGL).

Flight Sequence

As the pilot initiated the turn, the airspeed began to decrease, and the airplane started to descend. In response, the pilot applied power. The pilot then rolled the airplane to wings level, but the descent continued until the airplane struck the ground.

Environmental Conditions

The wind at the time was reported as light and variable.

Outcome

The airplane impacted the ground. The report does not specify any injuries or damage beyond the fact of ground impact.

Loss of control in flight

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 7 Nov 1991 Cessna 170 accident near Whiskey Gulch, AK?

While surveying an intended landing area, the pilot performed a low approach over water, turned toward the beach at 200 feet AGL, then experienced an airspeed drop and descent. Despite power application and wings leveled, the airplane struck the ground. Wind was light and variable.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 7 Nov 1991 involved a Cessna 170, registration N2584V, operated by Randolph R. Turner, at Whiskey Gulch, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO MAINTAIN AN AIRSPEED ABOVE STALLING DURING MANEUVERING FLIGHT. A FACTOR RELATING TO THE ACCIDENT WAS OPERATING AT AN ALTITUDE INADEQUATE IN WHICH TO EFFECT RECOVERY.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X18404. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.