Casualties unknown

1994-06-18: Cessna 152 (N4833B) — John Patrick Nolan — Mohawk, NY

Mohawk, NY, US

On June 18, 1994, a Cessna 152 (registration N4833B) operated by John Patrick Nolan was involved in an aviation accident near Mohawk, NY. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed. A factor is the pilot's overconfidence in his ability. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

According to witness reports, an airplane taking off from a private grass field climbed 200-300 feet, entered a steep left turn, then pitched down and descended to the ground. Examination found no mechanical malfunction.

Accident Details

Witnesses observed the airplane depart from a private grass field. After becoming airborne, the aircraft climbed to an estimated altitude between 200 and 300 feet above ground level. At that point, it initiated a steep left turn. Subsequently, the airplane pitched nose-down and descended toward the ground, where it came to rest.

Witness Accounts

One witness reported that earlier on the same day, the pilot had successfully performed a similar maneuver during a takeoff climb from another airport. The witness noted that the maneuver appeared similar to the one observed during the accident sequence.

Examination

A post-accident examination of the airplane revealed no evidence of any mechanical malfunction or failure. The airframe, engine, and control systems were inspected and found to be intact and functional. No pre-existing defects or anomalies were identified that could have contributed to the loss of control.

No other factors, such as weather conditions or air traffic control involvement, were reported or documented in the investigation source.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001206X01448. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.