Casualties unknown

Aircraft Descends into Terrain After Takeoff (N2945Z)

Saline, MI, US

On October 16, 1992, a Piper PA-22-160 (registration N2945Z) operated by Paul D. Cartman, Jr. was involved in an aviation accident near Saline, MI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO MAINTAIN AIRCRAFT CONTROL AND AIRSPEED. 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 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

After takeoff, an airplane turned west, entered a 45-degree nose-down attitude, and descended into terrain. Post-accident inspection found no engine or flight control failure.

Accident Description

During takeoff, the pilot departed to the north and climbed to approximately 500 feet. At that altitude, the airplane appeared to begin a turn to the west. While turning, the aircraft entered a nose-down attitude described as 45 degrees and subsequently descended until it impacted the terrain.

Weather and Environmental Conditions

At a reporting station located 4 nautical miles from the accident site, winds were reported from 280 degrees at 25 knots, gusting to 33 knots. Both the west and east sides of the runway were lined with trees.

Post-Accident Examination

An inspection of the engine and flight controls conducted after the accident failed to reveal any failure or malfunction.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X15836. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.