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Night Departure Accident: Left Wing Contacts Terrain During Turn (N28172)

Jackpot, NV, US

On October 8, 1996, a Bellanca 17-30A (registration N28172) was involved in an aviation accident near Jackpot, NV. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's inadvertent disorientation in dark night time conditions and failure to maintain a proper climbing attitude. 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 a dark night departure with 16% moon illumination, a pilot initiated a left turn shortly after takeoff; the airplane's left wing then dragged terrain. A witness and passenger reported the engine sounded normal.

Departure and Conditions

The pilot departed a desert airport heading south during a dark night. Only 16% of the moon was illuminated at the time. According to the airport data sheet, terrain obstructions are located to the south and west of the airport. The center of town lies less than a mile east of the airport.

Pilot Account and Witness Observations

The pilot reported that he began a left turn shortly after takeoff and that was the last thing he could remember. A ground witness and the passenger stated that the engine sounded normal throughout the event.

Wreckage Examination

Examination of the wreckage revealed that the airplane's left wing had made contact with the terrain during the left turn, resulting in damage to that wing.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 8 Oct 1996 Bellanca 17-30A accident near Jackpot, NV?

During a dark night departure with 16% moon illumination, a pilot initiated a left turn shortly after takeoff; the airplane's left wing then dragged terrain. A witness and passenger reported the engine sounded normal.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 8 Oct 1996 involved a Bellanca 17-30A, registration N28172, at Jackpot, NV.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

the pilot's inadvertent disorientation in dark night time conditions and failure to maintain a proper climbing attitude.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X06919. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.