What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1993-07-20 involved a North American T-6G, registration N44CT, at Berryville, VA.

Witnesses Observe Low Pass Followed by Stall and Spin in Home Area Accident (N44CT)

On July 20, 1993, a North American T-6G (registration N44CT) was involved in an aviation accident near Berryville, VA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: 1.) The pilot's poor judgment in performing a maneuver in close proximity to the ground, and 2.) the pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed, which resulted in an inadvertent stall/spin and subsequent loss of control in flight, resulting in a collision… 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 1781061362Data API Editorial standards

An airplane performing a low pass near the pilot's home pulled up abruptly, then stalled and entered a spin. No mechanical malfunctions were found during examination.

Accident Overview

According to witness statements, the accident airplane was observed executing a low pass in the vicinity of the pilot's residence. Following the low pass, the aircraft pulled up abruptly into a climbing turn. At an altitude estimated between 300 and 500 feet above ground level, the airplane then pitched down and entered a steep dive.

Witness Descriptions

Several witnesses reported that during the descent, the airplane was 'turning' and 'spinning,' and that the engine audibly 'revved up.' The airplane subsequently stalled, entered a spin, and impacted the terrain. Post-impact, the wreckage was consumed by fire.

Examination Findings

A thorough examination of the airframe and engine revealed no evidence of any mechanical malfunctions or failures that could have contributed to the loss of control.

Previous Observations

The same airplane had been observed by witnesses performing similar low passes around the pilot's home on multiple occasions prior to the day of the accident.

Conclusion

The accident sequence involved a stall and spin after an abrupt pull-up from a low pass, with no mechanical anomalies detected.

Loss of control in flight Aerodynamic stall

1993-07-20: North American T-6G (N44CT) — Berryville, VA