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Casualties unknown

Pilot Reports Wind Shear During Low-Altitude S-Turns on Approach (N9385T)

Slidell, LA, US

On March 24, 1996, a Piper PA-38-112 (registration N9385T) operated by Rfb Flying Service was involved in an aviation accident near Slidell, LA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's failure to maintain aircraft control during the approach, and his failure to execute a go-around. A factor was the gusting wind. 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

During approach to runway 18, the pilot performed S-turns at 100-150 feet high bank angle to increase separation. At tree level and 80 knots, wind shear was encountered, pushing the aircraft left into the ground.

Approach and Maneuvers

During an approach to runway 18, the aircraft was overtaking a landing aircraft. The pilot executed a series of low-altitude S-turns, between 100 and 150 feet above ground level, to increase the distance from the preceding aircraft. According to witnesses, these S-turns were performed at a very high angle of bank.

Wind Shear Encounter

The pilot reported that when the aircraft descended to tree level at an airspeed of 80 knots, wind shear was encountered. The wind "shoved the aircraft to the left and to the ground," as stated by the pilot.

Weather Conditions

According to a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspector, the winds at Slidell Airport were from 120 degrees at 15 knots, gusting to 22 knots.

Aftermath

No further details are provided in the source regarding the outcome of the event.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 24 Mar 1996 Piper PA-38-112 accident near Slidell, LA?

During approach to runway 18, the pilot performed S-turns at 100-150 feet high bank angle to increase separation. At tree level and 80 knots, wind shear was encountered, pushing the aircraft left into the ground.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 24 Mar 1996 involved a Piper PA-38-112, registration N9385T, operated by Rfb Flying Service, at Slidell, LA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

the pilot's failure to maintain aircraft control during the approach, and his failure to execute a go-around. A factor was the gusting wind.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X05407. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.