Casualties unknown

Aerobatic Maneuvers Precede Accident; No Anomalies Found in Wreckage (N924TA)

Superior, WI, US

On October 9, 1998, a Bellanca 8KCAB (registration N924TA) was involved in an aviation accident near Superior, WI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot not maintaining clearance with the terrain, and his improper decision to enter maneuvers too close to the terrain. Factors contributing to this accident were the aerobatic maneuvers, the trees and the berm. 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 witness observed a white and blue airplane performing loops, spirals, and barrel rolls before the accident. No witnesses to the crash and examination of wreckage revealed no anomalies.

Witness Account

A witness reported observing a white and blue airplane with stripes and blue wing tips performing aerobatic maneuvers south of his residence. The witness described the airplane climbing straight upward, executing spirals during ascent, and performing loops on the descent. The airplane was also seen conducting barrel rolls. According to the witness, no unusual engine sounds were heard during the approximately 10-minute observation period. After watching the aircraft, the witness went inside his house. No other witnesses to the accident were identified.

Accident and Investigation

The accident sequence was not witnessed. Investigators examined the wreckage and found no anomalies in the aircraft's structure or systems. The absence of mechanical or structural irregularities indicates that no pre-existing defects were evident in the recovered components.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 9 Oct 1998 Bellanca 8KCAB accident near Superior, WI?

A witness observed a white and blue airplane performing loops, spirals, and barrel rolls before the accident. No witnesses to the crash and examination of wreckage revealed no anomalies.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 9 Oct 1998 involved a Bellanca 8KCAB, registration N924TA, at Superior, WI.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

the pilot not maintaining clearance with the terrain, and his improper decision to enter maneuvers too close to the terrain. Factors contributing to this accident were the aerobatic maneuvers, the trees and the berm.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X11213. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.