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Casualties unknown

Aircraft Strikes Trees During Approach to Private Airstrip (N87351)

Wapato, WA, US

On September 3, 2000, an Ercoupe 415-C (registration N87351) was involved in an aviation accident near Wapato, WA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot inadvertently allowed the aircraft to descend to a lower than normal altitude and did not add power in time to clear the trees. 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 approach, pilot descended below normal altitude and failed to climb in time to avoid trees, resulting in a collision.

Incident Overview

During an approach to a private airstrip, the pilot allowed the aircraft to descend to an altitude lower than normal. As the aircraft neared the end of the runway, the pilot realized that a climb was necessary to clear trees located just off the approach end. Although the pilot added power, the action was not executed in time to climb above the treetops. The aircraft subsequently collided with the trees and tumbled into the terrain.

Pilot Observations

The pilot later indicated that a downdraft may have been encountered at approximately the same time as power was added for the climb. No other factors were mentioned in the investigation source.

Probable cause

The pilot inadvertently allowed the aircraft to descend to a lower than normal altitude and did not add power in time to clear the trees.
Controlled flight into terrainWeather

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 3 Sept 2000 Ercoupe 415-C accident near Wapato, WA?

During approach, pilot descended below normal altitude and failed to climb in time to avoid trees, resulting in a collision.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 3 Sept 2000 involved an Ercoupe 415-C, registration N87351, at Wapato, WA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot inadvertently allowed the aircraft to descend to a lower than normal altitude and did not add power in time to clear the trees.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X22069. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.