Casualties unknown

1997-06-09: Cessna 170A (N2551V) — Orangeburg, SC

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 1781061362Data 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.

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.