On January 17, 1982, a Piper PA-31-310 Navajo (registration N9181Y) operated by Aviation Services International was involved in an aviation accident near Port Mansfield-Charles R. Johnson, United States of America during landing or approach. One person was killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Loss of control on BFR approach pattern after the pilot failed to maintain flying speed. 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.
The aircraft crashed half a mile from runway 12 after a sharp turn. The pilot lost control due to failure to maintain flying speed. 1,500 lbs of marijuana was found on board.
Accident Details
An aircraft crashed and burned approximately half a mile from the approach end of runway 12. A witness reported that the plane "just fell" while the pilot was making a sharp turn. An estimated 1,500 pounds of marijuana was on board.
Investigation Findings
The investigation revealed that the aircraft had been stolen and was being operated without authorization. The pilot inadvertently stalled the aircraft during the approach pattern.
Official Probable Cause
The official probable cause was loss of control on BFR approach pattern after the pilot failed to maintain flying speed. Contributing findings included stolen aircraft (unauthorized use) and inadvertent stall by the pilot.
What happened in the 17 Jan 1982 Piper PA-31-310 Navajo accident near Port Mansfield-Charles R. Johnson, United States of America?
The aircraft crashed half a mile from runway 12 after a sharp turn. The pilot lost control due to failure to maintain flying speed. 1,500 lbs of marijuana was found on board.
Were there any fatalities in the 17 Jan 1982 Piper PA-31-310 Navajo accident?
The accident was fatal, resulting in 1 fatality.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 17 Jan 1982 involved a Piper PA-31-310 Navajo, registration N9181Y, operated by Aviation Services International, at Port Mansfield-Charles R. Johnson, United States of America.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
Loss of control on BFR approach pattern after the pilot failed to maintain flying speed.
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