Casualties unknown

Low Flying Airplane Strikes Tree During Circling Maneuver (N3555A)

Butte Falls, OR, US

On August 11, 1994, a Piper PA-22 (registration N3555A) operated by Read, Brian R. was involved in an aviation accident near Butte Falls, OR. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT-IN-COMMAND'S FAILURE TO MAINTAIN ADEQUATE ALTITUDE AND CLEARANCE FROM TREES WHILE MANEUVERING. 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

A witness observed an airplane circling at low altitude before it struck a 100-foot-tall fir tree and impacted terrain. Investigation found no pre-impact mechanical deficiencies. The pilot had received his private pilot certificate less than three months prior.

Incident Overview

A ground witness reported observing an airplane circling at a low altitude over his property. During the maneuver, the airplane struck a 100-foot-tall fir tree and subsequently impacted the terrain. Branches from the tree, cut by the propeller, were discovered along the wreckage path.

Investigation Findings

Investigators found no evidence of pre-impact mechanical deficiencies in the airplane. The ground witness, who was an acquaintance of the pilot, stated that the pilot had flown over his property on previous occasions.

Pilot Background

The pilot had received his private pilot certificate less than three months prior to the accident. No additional details about the pilot's experience or qualifications were provided.

Wreckage and Impact

The airplane's impact with the tree and terrain resulted in the wreckage path. The specific extent of damage to the aircraft was not detailed in the report.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001206X02132. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.