Casualties unknown

2000-09-18: Piper PA-16 (N5943H) — Chesaning, MI

Chesaning, MI, US

On September 18, 2000, a Piper PA-16 (registration N5943H) was involved in an aviation accident near Chesaning, MI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot failed to maintain clearance from the trees. A factor was 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 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

An airplane conducting touch-and-go landings impacted trees and then the ground in a steep nose-down attitude. No preexisting anomalies were found, but toxicology showed the pilot had impairing medications.

Accident Sequence

Witnesses observed the airplane flying low on the final approach to the runway. The aircraft then impacted trees approximately 50 feet in height, followed by a ground impact in a steep nose-down attitude. The airplane had been observed performing touch-and-go landings for about 15 minutes prior to the accident.

Aircraft Examination

A postaccident examination of the airplane revealed no preexisting anomalies that would have precluded normal operation. The airframe and systems appeared to be in working order, with no mechanical or structural failures identified.

Toxicology Report

Toxicological testing of the pilot detected the presence of imipramine and diphenhydramine. Imipramine is known to have a detrimental effect on driving skills and other cognitive functions. Diphenhydramine can cause drowsiness. The specific impact of these substances on the pilot's performance during the accident sequence is not detailed in the report.

Conclusion

The investigation did not assign a probable cause for the accident. The presence of impairing medications in the pilot was noted, but no direct causal link was established in the source.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X21919. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.