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5 fatalities

Five Occupants Killed After Stall on Final Approach in Nederland (N9174Y)

Nederland, United States of AmericaLanding (descent or approach)

On November 20, 1968, a Piper PA-31-310 Navajo (registration N9174Y) operated by London Properties was involved in an aviation accident near Nederland, United States of America during landing or approach. 5 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The aircraft stalled on final approach during a steep bank at low altitude probably due to an error on part of the pilot who failed to maintain flying speed. A mechanical discrepancy is also suspected. 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)Primary report: the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive (1962-1981)Updated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During a post-maintenance test flight, an aircraft stalled on final approach and crashed with a huge explosion, killing all five occupants. The official probable cause cites pilot error and a suspected mechanical discrepancy.

Accident Summary

A pilot and four passengers were conducting a local post-maintenance test flight at Nederland-Jefferson County Airport. After completing a local circuit, the pilot initiated an approach to the airport. While on final approach, the airplane stalled and subsequently crashed in a huge explosion, killing all five occupants.

Investigation Findings

The official investigation determined the probable cause of the accident: the aircraft stalled on final approach during a steep bank at low altitude, likely due to an error by the pilot who failed to maintain flying speed. Additionally, a mechanical discrepancy is also suspected.

Aerodynamic stall

Related events

Same aircraft family

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 20 Nov 1968 Piper PA-31-310 Navajo accident near Nederland, United States of America?

During a post-maintenance test flight, an aircraft stalled on final approach and crashed with a huge explosion, killing all five occupants. The official probable cause cites pilot error and a suspected mechanical discrepancy.

Were there any fatalities in the 20 Nov 1968 Piper PA-31-310 Navajo accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 5 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 20 Nov 1968 involved a Piper PA-31-310 Navajo, registration N9174Y, operated by London Properties, at Nederland, United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft stalled on final approach during a steep bank at low altitude probably due to an error on part of the pilot who failed to maintain flying speed. A mechanical discrepancy is also suspected.

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