Casualties unknown

Aircraft Crashes After Low Pass Over Unlit Airstrip at Night (N4176Y)

DE Borgia, MT, US

On September 22, 1993, a Cessna 185A (registration N4176Y) operated by Mcadams, John A. was involved in an aviation accident near DE Borgia, MT. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S POOR IN-FLIGHT PLANNING/DECISION AND HIS FAILURE TO MAINTAIN AIRSPEED ABOVE A STALL. 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
Aircraft registered N4176Y
Aircraft registered N4176Y. Photo: R6, State & Private Forestry, Forest Health Protection / Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

A witness observed an airplane perform a low pass over an unlit airstrip in dark night conditions, then pull up sharply and turn left before descending behind a hill, where flames became visible. Post-crash investigation revealed a nose-down, left-wing-low impact attitude with no evidence of mechanical failure.

Accident Overview

A witness reported that an airplane made a low pass over an unlit airstrip in dark night conditions. The witness initially believed the airplane was preparing to land, but noted that its airspeed was too fast for landing. Upon reaching the end of the airstrip, the airplane suddenly pulled up and executed a sharp left turn. It then descended behind a small hill, and shortly thereafter, flames were observed.

Post-Crash Findings

During the post-crash investigation, it was noted that the airplane had collided with terrain in a nose-down and left-wing-low attitude. Examination of the wreckage revealed no evidence indicating a mechanical failure or malfunction.

Witness Account

The sole witness described the sequence of events, emphasizing the airplane's excessive speed during the low pass and the abrupt maneuvers that preceded its disappearance behind the hill. The subsequent visible flames suggested an impact with the ground.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 22 Sept 1993 Cessna 185A accident near DE Borgia, MT?

A witness observed an airplane perform a low pass over an unlit airstrip in dark night conditions, then pull up sharply and turn left before descending behind a hill, where flames became visible. Post-crash investigation revealed a nose-down, left-wing-low impact attitude with no evidence of mechanical failure.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 22 Sept 1993 involved a Cessna 185A, registration N4176Y, operated by Mcadams, John A., at DE Borgia, MT.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE PILOT'S POOR IN-FLIGHT PLANNING/DECISION AND HIS FAILURE TO MAINTAIN AIRSPEED ABOVE A STALL.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X13470. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.