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Casualties unknown

Aircraft Descends from Cloud Lacking Wings and Tail After Icing Encounter (N39652)

Pullman, MI, US

On September 17, 1992, a Piper PA-32RT-300T (registration N39652) operated by Weber, Tracy T. was involved in an aviation accident near Pullman, MI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT IN COMMAND'S EXCEEDING THE DESIGN STRESS LIMITS OF THE AIRCRAFT. 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

An IFR flight encountered forecast thunderstorms, icing, and turbulence. After clearing to a lower altitude, radar showed rapid acceleration; the fuselage was seen descending from a cloud with no wings or tail.

Flight Details

The pilot departed on an instrument flight rules (IFR) flight plan along a route that had been forecast and reported to contain thunderstorm activity with the possibility of icing and turbulence.

In-Flight Events

While at 15,000 feet, the pilot reported encountering rain and icing and requested a lower altitude. After being cleared to 13,000 feet, radar data showed the airplane accelerating to 6,250 feet per minute.

Witness Observation

Shortly thereafter, a ground witness observed the fuselage descending out of a cloud with no wings or tail.

Wreckage Examination

Examination of the wreckage failed to reveal any pre-existing mechanical anomalies.

Structural failure

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 17 Sept 1992 Piper PA-32RT-300T accident near Pullman, MI?

An IFR flight encountered forecast thunderstorms, icing, and turbulence. After clearing to a lower altitude, radar showed rapid acceleration; the fuselage was seen descending from a cloud with no wings or tail.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 17 Sept 1992 involved a Piper PA-32RT-300T, registration N39652, operated by Weber, Tracy T., at Pullman, MI.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE PILOT IN COMMAND'S EXCEEDING THE DESIGN STRESS LIMITS OF THE AIRCRAFT.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X15645. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.