Casualties unknown

Banner Towing Aircraft Crashes After Steep Climb (N139SG)

Sanford, FL, US

On June 22, 2007, an American Champion (acac) 8GCBC (registration N139SG) operated by Rosie O'grady's Aerial Advertising Co. was involved in an aviation accident near Sanford, FL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain airspeed and his excessive pitch attitude while maneuvering. 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 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A banner-towing airplane crashed after a steep climb and left bank following a low pass without picking up a banner. Investigators found no preimpact mechanical anomalies.

Accident Overview

On an unspecified date, a banner-towing airplane was observed by witnesses during a flight. The aircraft made a low pass that appeared to be an attempt to pick up a banner; however, it did not retrieve the banner. Subsequently, the airplane climbed at an excessive pitch angle, then banked to the left and impacted the ground.

Investigation Findings

An examination of the airframe and engine revealed no preimpact mechanical anomalies. The most recent annual inspection had been completed two months prior to the accident, with no anomalies noted.

Pilot Information

The pilot reported approximately 5,900 total hours of flight experience, of which 21 hours were in the accident airplane.

Conclusion

The accident investigation did not identify a mechanical cause for the loss of control. The circumstances surrounding the pilot's actions during the attempted banner pickup and subsequent climb remain under investigation.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 22 Jun 2007 American Champion (acac) 8GCBC accident near Sanford, FL?

A banner-towing airplane crashed after a steep climb and left bank following a low pass without picking up a banner. Investigators found no preimpact mechanical anomalies.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 22 Jun 2007 involved an American Champion (acac) 8GCBC, registration N139SG, operated by Rosie O'grady's Aerial Advertising Co., at Sanford, FL.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain airspeed and his excessive pitch attitude while maneuvering.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20070718X00953. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.