On May 4, 2003, a Piper PA-18-150 (registration N46773) operated by John Mcphee was involved in an aviation accident near Ashland, ME. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's impairment due to over-the-counter medications, which resulted in a loss of aircraft control while maneuvering. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
While maneuvering for animal tracking, an airplane struck trees and came to rest inverted. Investigation found no mechanical issues but revealed the pilot had ingested multiple sedating antihistamines at levels five times higher than a typical maximum dose.
Accident Details
The pilot was maneuvering the airplane for animal tracking when it struck trees and came to rest inverted. The pilot's wife stated that he was "fighting a bad cold for about a week" prior to the accident. She added the pilot was taking NyQuil to "get through the night," and it was possible he was also taking Benadryl.
Investigation Findings
Examination of the airframe and engine did not reveal any pre-impact mechanical malfunctions. Fuel was found in all three fuel tanks. Tree scars and propeller signatures were consistent with engine power.
Toxicology Report
Review of the pilot's toxicology report revealed that he had recently ingested at least three different over-the-counter medications which contained sedating antihistamines. The levels of substances in the pilot's blood were at least five times higher than the levels expected with a typical maximum single over-the-counter dose of the medications.
What happened in the 4 May 2003 Piper PA-18-150 accident near Ashland, ME?
While maneuvering for animal tracking, an airplane struck trees and came to rest inverted. Investigation found no mechanical issues but revealed the pilot had ingested multiple sedating antihistamines at levels five times higher than a typical maximum dose.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 4 May 2003 involved a Piper PA-18-150, registration N46773, operated by John Mcphee, at Ashland, ME.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's impairment due to over-the-counter medications, which resulted in a loss of aircraft control while maneuvering.
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