Aircraft Accident Involving an 83-Year-Old Pilot (N1211Z)

Accident Description and Investigation Findings Witnesses reported that the airplane was operating in the traffic pattern at an altitude lower than normal and in an erratic manner. The aircraft subsequently dropped below the tree line and reappeared while striking trees and the ground beyond. Post-accident investigation determined that fuel was present in both wing tanks and that no mechanical problems were found with the airplane. The pilot, who was 83 years old, had checked out of a nursing home where he was a resident in order to fly the airplane to an airport for an annual inspection. An autopsy disclosed an old myocardial infarct, but no acute myocardial infarcts were observed. In addition, the pilot had diffuse malignant lymphoma.