Casualties unknown

Engine Noise Change Before Impact During Low Pass Maneuvers (N50VT)

Ashland, OR, US

On February 3, 1994, a Beech S35 (registration N50VT) operated by Madden, James C. was involved in an aviation accident near Ashland, OR. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: POOR IN-FLIGHT PLANNING/DECISION. FACTORS TO THE ACCIDENT WERE: CLEARANCE WAS NOT MAINTAINED AND POOR SUPERVISION. 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

An airplane made two low passes over an airstrip before a third pass during which it maneuvered to the right. Witnesses reported the engine revved seconds before impact.

Event Description

Witnesses observed an airplane performing two low passes over or near an airstrip. During a third pass, the airplane was maneuvering to the right side of the airstrip. It is unknown whether the pilot intended to land on this pass.

Engine Condition

Witnesses stated that the engine sounded normal until just seconds before impact, at which point the engine revved. An inspection of the engine found no evidence of mechanical failure or malfunction.

Unknown Factors

The source does not specify the aircraft type, registration, date, operator, location, number of occupants, injuries, damage items, time of day, weather conditions, or whether air traffic control was involved.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001206X00810. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.