Casualties unknown

2005-07-15: Grumman G164A (N48408) — Edward A. Carter — Williamstown, NJ

Williamstown, NJ, US

On July 15, 2005, a Grumman G164A (registration N48408) operated by Edward A. Carter was involved in an aviation accident near Williamstown, NJ. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's misjudgment of distance/altitude, and his failure to maintain obstacle clearance. 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

After takeoff, a pilot encountered worse-than-reported weather and returned to the departure airport. On final approach, the airplane began to settle; the pilot was slow to respond and added power but struck wires and terrain before the runway. The pilot stated the airplane and engine performed perfectly and took full blame.

Incident Overview

A pilot took off and soon determined that the weather conditions were worse than had been reported. He decided to return to the departure airport. During the final approach, the airplane began to "settle," and the pilot acknowledged that his response was "slow." When he added power, the airplane struck wires and subsequently impacted terrain short of the approach end of the runway.

Pilot Remarks

When asked about the performance and handling of the airplane, the pilot said, "The airplane was fine. The engine was running perfectly. I'm not blaming anyone but me." In a later discussion, the pilot added that he managed the airport, was aware of the wires, and noted that they were marked.

Investigation Notes

The investigation did not specify the aircraft type, registration, operator, date, location, number of occupants, or any injuries. No determination of causal factors was provided beyond the pilot's own account.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20050812X01239. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.