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Fatal Single-Engine Aircraft Crash at Camp San Luis Obispo (51-16469)

Camp San Luis Obispo (Cuesta College), United States of AmericaLanding (descent or approach)

On April 9, 1972, a De Havilland DHC-2 Beaver (registration 51-16469) operated by United States Army was involved in an aviation accident near Camp San Luis Obispo (Cuesta College), United States of America during landing or approach. 2 people were killed. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Source recordUpdated 2026-09-03Data APIEditorial standards

A single-engine aircraft struck a warehouse on final approach to Camp San Luis Obispo, veered into a creek, and caught fire, killing both occupants.

Incident Overview and Location Details During final approach to Camp San Luis Obispo (Cuesta College), a single-engine aircraft collided with a warehouse situated at the end of the runway. The impact caused the left wing to be torn off, and the aircraft subsequently veered toward a nearby creek. The airplane crashed upside down and caught fire. Both occupants were killed in the incident. The crew consisted of CW2 Richard F. Race, who was the pilot, and Lt Col Michael A. Nolan, who was the passenger. The source does not specify the aircraft type, registration, date, operator, or the exact cause of the accident.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 9 Apr 1972 De Havilland DHC-2 Beaver accident near Camp San Luis Obispo (Cuesta College), United States of America?

A single-engine aircraft struck a warehouse on final approach to Camp San Luis Obispo, veered into a creek, and caught fire, killing both occupants.

Were there any fatalities in the 9 Apr 1972 De Havilland DHC-2 Beaver accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 2 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 9 Apr 1972 involved a De Havilland DHC-2 Beaver, registration 51-16469, operated by United States Army, at Camp San Luis Obispo (Cuesta College), United States of America.

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