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Aircraft Collision with Trees After Takeoff (N2534B)

Pensacola, FL, US

On June 20, 1993, a Piper PA-38-112 (registration N2534B) was involved in an aviation accident near Pensacola, FL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO MAINTAIN CONTROL OF THE AIRPLANE DUE TO ALCOHOL IMPAIRMENT. THE DARK NIGHT WAS A CONTRIBUTING FACTOR. 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 2026-09-03Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot and passenger left a bar, stopped for beer, and took off. After 5-10 minutes, the aircraft entered a dive and struck trees. The pilot's blood alcohol level was 0.29%, with diphenhydramine and acetaminophen also detected.

Departure and Flight Sequence The pilot and passenger departed a bar for the airport at approximately 2300. Before takeoff, they stopped at a gas station and purchased a 12-pack of beer. After takeoff, the aircraft flew for 5 to 10 minutes before turning back toward the airport. ## Passenger Account The passenger reported that the aircraft suddenly entered a dive without any warning from the pilot. He stated he was pressed down in his seat and believed the pilot was attempting to pull out of the dive when the aircraft collided with trees. ## Toxicology Findings The pilot's blood alcohol level was 292.000 mg/dL (0.29%). Diphenhydramine was detected in the pilot's blood and urine, and 9.900 ug/mL acetaminophen was detected in the urine.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 20 Jun 1993 Piper PA-38-112 accident near Pensacola, FL?

A pilot and passenger left a bar, stopped for beer, and took off. After 5-10 minutes, the aircraft entered a dive and struck trees. The pilot's blood alcohol level was 0.29%, with diphenhydramine and acetaminophen also detected.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 20 Jun 1993 involved a Piper PA-38-112, registration N2534B, at Pensacola, FL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO MAINTAIN CONTROL OF THE AIRPLANE DUE TO ALCOHOL IMPAIRMENT. THE DARK NIGHT WAS A CONTRIBUTING FACTOR.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X12668. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.