On June 16, 2001, a Cessna 150L (registration N11912) operated by Kitty Hawk Aero Tours was involved in an aviation accident near Manteo, NC. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain airspeed while maneuvering after releasing a banner resulting in an inadvertent stall and subsequent in-flight collision with terrain. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 2 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
Witnesses observed a banner release near runway 23. The airplane then pitched up over 45°, stalled, rolled left, and crashed. Investigation found no pre-impact mechanical failure.
Event Details
The pilot of the airplane carried out a banner release over the sod area adjacent to runway 23. Witnesses on the ground observed this action. Immediately after the release, the witnesses heard the engine power increase. The airplane then pitched its nose upward dramatically, exceeding a 45-degree angle relative to the horizon. This extreme pitch attitude led to an aerodynamic stall. The stall caused the left wing to drop and the airplane to roll to the left. The aircraft then descended in a nose-down attitude and struck the ground. The impact resulted in an explosion.
Investigation
A detailed examination of the wreckage was conducted. This included inspection of the airframe, flight control system, engine assembly, and all related accessories. The purpose was to identify any pre-existing mechanical issues. The results showed no evidence of any mechanical failure or malfunction that occurred before the crash. The aircraft appeared to have been in a condition consistent with normal operations leading up to the event.
What happened in the 16 Jun 2001 Cessna 150L accident near Manteo, NC?
Witnesses observed a banner release near runway 23. The airplane then pitched up over 45°, stalled, rolled left, and crashed. Investigation found no pre-impact mechanical failure.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 16 Jun 2001 involved a Cessna 150L, registration N11912, operated by Kitty Hawk Aero Tours, at Manteo, NC.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to maintain airspeed while maneuvering after releasing a banner resulting in an inadvertent stall and subsequent in-flight collision with terrain.
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