Casualties unknown

Night Circling Flight Ends After Ground Contact (N47558)

Pittsburg, KS, US

On August 29, 1996, a Piper PA-28-161 (registration N47558) was involved in an aviation accident near Pittsburg, KS. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot diverted his attention and failed to maintain sufficient altitude and clearance with the terrain. Factors relating to the accident were: darkness, and the pilot performing low altitude flight at night. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 4 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot reported that while circling a residence at night, the airplane descended, struck a terrace, became airborne again, then 'quit flying' and came to rest in an open field.

Overview

According to the pilot and passengers, the flight departed at night with the intention of flying over the city to observe the city lights. After doing so, the pilot circled his parent's home three times. Believing he saw the porch light go on, he decided to circle one more time.

The Incident

The pilot reported that during the final turn, the airplane was apparently descending. Once the turn was completed and the airplane was heading east, it flew into the low side of a terrace. Following the impact, the airplane became airborne again. The pilot added power in an attempt to climb, but the airplane then 'quit flying' and came to rest in an open field.

Passenger Account

One passenger reported that when the airplane was circling the residence, it was less than 150 feet above the ground.

Aftermath

The airplane sustained damage from the ground contact and subsequent landing in the field. No further details about the aircraft, occupants, or injuries were provided by the source.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 29 Aug 1996 Piper PA-28-161 accident near Pittsburg, KS?

A pilot reported that while circling a residence at night, the airplane descended, struck a terrace, became airborne again, then 'quit flying' and came to rest in an open field.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 29 Aug 1996 involved a Piper PA-28-161, registration N47558, at Pittsburg, KS.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

the pilot diverted his attention and failed to maintain sufficient altitude and clearance with the terrain. Factors relating to the accident were: darkness, and the pilot performing low altitude flight at night.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X06476. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.