On May 31, 1994, a Cessna 172N (registration N6305J) operated by Venture Aviation, Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Roosevelt, AZ. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's selection of an inadequate terrain clearance altitude while maneuvering over a lake. A factor in the accident was the calm glassy water conditions which may have affected the pilot's perception of his actual height above the water. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 3 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A pilot made a low pass over a private airstrip, then flew low over a lake. Witnesses saw the left wingtip contact the water, causing the aircraft to cartwheel into the lake. The engine sounded normal throughout.
Incident Overview
A pilot reported that he performed a low pass over a private airstrip adjacent to a lake but could not recall the accident sequence. Witnesses in boats stated that the aircraft flew low over the airstrip and then continued over the lake surface at an estimated altitude of 50 feet above ground level. The aircraft traveled about one mile over the water before initiating a turn. During the turn, the left wingtip contacted the water, and the aircraft cartwheeled into the lake.
Witness Observations
One witness, an FAA airframe and powerplant mechanic who works on general aviation aircraft, reported that the engine sounded strong and normal from the time the aircraft left the airstrip until it crashed into the lake. The witnesses noted that the lake surface was glassy smooth.
Post-Accident Examination
The airframe wreckage was recovered from the lake. Examination confirmed control system continuity. The engine separated from the airframe during the impact sequence and was not recovered.
What happened in the 31 May 1994 Cessna 172N accident near Roosevelt, AZ?
A pilot made a low pass over a private airstrip, then flew low over a lake. Witnesses saw the left wingtip contact the water, causing the aircraft to cartwheel into the lake. The engine sounded normal throughout.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 31 May 1994 involved a Cessna 172N, registration N6305J, operated by Venture Aviation, Inc., at Roosevelt, AZ.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
the pilot's selection of an inadequate terrain clearance altitude while maneuvering over a lake. A factor in the accident was the calm glassy water conditions which may have affected the pilot's perception of his actual height above the water.
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