Casualties unknown

Passenger Reports Hearing Multiple Impacts Before Crash in Swampy Area (N2551V)

Orangeburg, SC, US

On June 9, 1997, a Cessna 170A (registration N2551V) was involved in an aviation accident near Orangeburg, SC. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot experienced a partial loss of engine power for undetermined reason. The pilot failed to maintain flying airspeed which resulted in a stall and then subsequent collision with the ground. 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

A passenger reported hearing multiple impacts and losing power before a crash in a wooded swamp. The pilot had no recollection of the takeoff roll. No mechanical issues were found, but carburetor ice conditions were present.

Incident Overview

According to a passenger on board, she had her eyes closed during takeoff and only opened them once she felt the aircraft was airborne. Upon opening her eyes, she observed the airplane above the trees and heard something striking the aircraft multiple times. She then realized the aircraft was losing power and descending. The passenger was jolted forward in her seat and felt the aircraft continue to descend until it impacted the ground.

The pilot reported having no recollection of the flight after initiating the takeoff roll.

Examination and Findings

An FAA inspector stated that the aircraft stalled and came to rest in a heavily wooded, swampy area, located a few hundred yards northeast of the grass strip. No engine or aircraft mechanical malfunctions were reported by the pilot, nor were any discovered during the wreckage examination.

Weather data indicated that conditions were favorable for the formation of carburetor ice. No further details regarding the aircraft type, registration, operator, location, or occupants were provided in the source.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 9 Jun 1997 Cessna 170A accident near Orangeburg, SC?

A passenger reported hearing multiple impacts and losing power before a crash in a wooded swamp. The pilot had no recollection of the takeoff roll. No mechanical issues were found, but carburetor ice conditions were present.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 9 Jun 1997 involved a Cessna 170A, registration N2551V, at Orangeburg, SC.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot experienced a partial loss of engine power for undetermined reason. The pilot failed to maintain flying airspeed which resulted in a stall and then subsequent collision with the ground. A factor was, conditions were favorable for the formation of carburetor ice.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X08057. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.