On September 15, 1994, a Piper PA-23-250 (registration N13909) was involved in an aviation accident near Beaver Island, MI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO MAINTAIN CONTROL OF THE AIRPLANE. THE PILOT'S BUZZING AND HIS IMPAIRMENT OF JUDGMENT AND PERFORMANCE DUE TO ALCOHOL WERE FACTORS IN THE ACCIDENT. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An airplane was observed flying low over trees, performing pitch and roll maneuvers, before descending straight into trees. Investigation found no airframe or control system failure. The sheriff detected alcohol odor on pilot and passenger; pilot's autopsy showed 0.06 gm ethanol per 100 gm liver tissue.
Accident Sequence
The airplane was observed by witnesses flying at low level over trees. It performed a series of pitch-up and pitch-down maneuvers. Additionally, the airplane was seen turning left and right. After these maneuvers, the airplane descended straight down into the trees.
On-Scene Investigation
An on-scene investigation was conducted. The investigators found no evidence of failure in the airframe or control systems. The county sheriff, who was present during on-scene activities, stated that he detected a strong odor of alcohol on both the pilot and one passenger.
Toxicology Findings
Autopsy of the pilot was performed. The toxicology analysis revealed the presence of ethanol in the liver tissue. The concentration measured 0.06 grams of ethanol per 100 grams of liver tissue.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 15 Sept 1994 Piper PA-23-250 accident near Beaver Island, MI?
An airplane was observed flying low over trees, performing pitch and roll maneuvers, before descending straight into trees. Investigation found no airframe or control system failure. The sheriff detected alcohol odor on pilot and passenger; pilot's autopsy showed 0.06 gm ethanol per 100 gm liver tissue.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 15 Sept 1994 involved a Piper PA-23-250, registration N13909, at Beaver Island, MI.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO MAINTAIN CONTROL OF THE AIRPLANE. THE PILOT'S BUZZING AND HIS IMPAIRMENT OF JUDGMENT AND PERFORMANCE DUE TO ALCOHOL WERE FACTORS IN THE ACCIDENT.
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