On January 2, 1992, a Piper PA-18 (registration N1930A) operated by Carl T. Langton was involved in an aviation accident near Nome, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's loss of control due to aerodynamic stall during a low-altitude maneuver, compounded by his uncertified status and lack of recent medical or instructional oversight. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An uncertified pilot lost control of his aircraft while circling near his home, executing a steep bank that resulted in a stall and impact with the ground.
What happened
The incident occurred after an uncertified pilot took off from a road surface. Following departure, the pilot flew in a pattern around his residence at a low altitude. At approximately 200 feet above ground level, he initiated a left bank with a pitch angle between 50 and 60 degrees. During this maneuver, the airplane entered a stall condition and subsequently collided with the terrain.
The investigation
Post-accident interviews revealed that the pilot had not undergone an FAA medical examination in several years. Additionally, he admitted to having not received flight instruction from a certified instructor during that same period. These factors suggest a lack of recent medical clearance and proficiency training prior to the flight.
Probable cause
The pilot's loss of control due to aerodynamic stall during a low-altitude maneuver, compounded by his uncertified status and lack of recent medical or instructional oversight.
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