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Witness Observes Loss of Altitude During Turn Prior to Tree Strike

Warwarsing, NY, United States

On April 5, 2012, a WIELT GREAT LAKES 2T-1A operated by THOMAS MARK R was involved in an aviation accident near Warwarsing, NY. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot’s failure to maintain airplane control during low level maneuvering flight. This summary draws on records from NTSB.

SourcesNTSBPrimary reportUpdated 2026-08-03Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot performing a low-altitude turn over a friend's property lost control, descending at a 45-degree angle into a tree and the ground, resulting in substantial damage. The pilot reported no mechanical issues.

Accident Details

The pilot of a general aviation airplane reported performing a normal preflight inspection with no anomalies noted. The flight was intended to circle around a friend's property and then return to the departure airport. During the first turn to circle the property, the pilot waved to friends and subsequently reported no memory of events following the initiation of that turn.

Witness Observations

A witness on the ground observed the airplane as it began the turn. According to the witness, the airplane lost altitude and descended at a 45-degree angle until it struck a tree and then the ground. The impact resulted in substantial damage to the wings and fuselage.

Pilot's Account

In a telephone interview after the accident, the pilot stated that there were no mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. The pilot did not provide further explanation for the loss of control.

Contributing factors

PilotDirectional control — Not attained/maintained

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 5 Apr 2012 WIELT GREAT LAKES 2T-1A accident near Warwarsing, NY?

A pilot performing a low-altitude turn over a friend's property lost control, descending at a 45-degree angle into a tree and the ground, resulting in substantial damage. The pilot reported no mechanical issues.

Were there any fatalities in the 5 Apr 2012 WIELT GREAT LAKES 2T-1A accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 5 Apr 2012 involved a WIELT GREAT LAKES 2T-1A, operated by THOMAS MARK R, at Warwarsing, NY.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot’s failure to maintain airplane control during low level maneuvering flight.

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