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Aircraft Rolls and Crashes During Low-Altitude Maneuver (N1049A)

Richvale, CA, US

On November 3, 1995, a North American AT-6D (registration N1049A) was involved in an aviation accident near Richvale, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the attempt by the pilot to execute an aerobatic maneuver with inadequate altitude to effect recovery before impacting terrain. 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 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

After takeoff and a reversal, the pilot performed an aileron roll. During the roll, the nose dropped and the aircraft descended too low to recover, impacting the ground and burning.

Sequence of Events

The pilot departed the airport to the north, executed a pull-up course reversal, and then flew southbound over the runway. At the south end of the runway, the pilot made a right-hand climbing turn to a northerly heading and began an aileron roll. During the roll, the nose of the aircraft dropped, and the aircraft descended with insufficient altitude to recover from the maneuver. It impacted the ground in an upright, wings-level, nose-low attitude and burned on impact.

Witness Observations

Witnesses reported that the engine sounded normal throughout the flight.

Damage

The aircraft was destroyed by impact forces and post-impact fire.

Controlled flight into terrain

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 3 Nov 1995 North American AT-6D accident near Richvale, CA?

After takeoff and a reversal, the pilot performed an aileron roll. During the roll, the nose dropped and the aircraft descended too low to recover, impacting the ground and burning.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 3 Nov 1995 involved a North American AT-6D, registration N1049A, at Richvale, CA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

the attempt by the pilot to execute an aerobatic maneuver with inadequate altitude to effect recovery before impacting terrain.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001207X04872. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.