Casualties unknown

Airplane Strikes Trees During Landing Approach After Encountering Sudden Sink Rate (N9181P)

Blaney Park, MI, US

On May 19, 2003, a Piper PA-24-260 (registration N9181P) was involved in an aviation accident near Blaney Park, MI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain clearance with the tree line. Factors contributing to this accident were the wind gusts and 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 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

On landing approach to runway 16, a pilot encountered a sudden sink rate 125 to 150 feet above ground. Despite adding power and pulling back on the yoke, the airplane descended into trees, slid 15-20 feet, and pivoted 180 degrees.

Accident Overview

During a landing approach, the airplane impacted trees and terrain. The pilot reported experiencing a sudden sink rate while at an altitude of 125 to 150 feet above ground level, as the aircraft descended toward runway 16.

Pilot Actions and Sequence

In response to the unexpected descent, the pilot increased engine power and pulled back on the yoke in an attempt to arrest the sink rate. However, the airplane continued to descend and struck a line of trees. After impact, the aircraft slid approximately 15 to 20 feet and pivoted 180 degrees to the right.

Weather Conditions

At 1557, a weather reporting station located 13 nautical miles to the west-southwest of the accident site reported wind from 210 degrees at 10 knots, with gusts to 14 knots.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20030520X00705. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.