2 fatalities

Two Killed in Controlled Collision with Ground During Low Pass While Smuggling Marijuana (N54294)

Piñon, United States of AmericaFlight

On September 19, 1976, a Piper PA-31-350 Navajo Chieftain (registration N54294) operated by Private United States of America was involved in an aviation accident near Piñon, United States of America in flight. 2 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Controlled collision with ground during a low pass by night; contributing factors: misjudged altitude and clearance, high obstructions, hit trees on second low pass. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 16 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

A twin-engine aircraft, returning from Mexico with 600 kilograms of marijuana, struck trees and crashed during a second low pass. Both occupants were killed. The investigation determined the accident was a controlled collision with ground at night, due to misjudged altitude and obstacles.

Background

A twin-engine aircraft, reportedly originating from Mexico, was conducting an illegal flight carrying approximately 600 kilograms of marijuana. The aircraft was observed making multiple low passes over an unspecified area.

Accident Sequence

After an initial low pass, the pilot descended for a second low pass, likely intending to jettison the cargo. During this maneuver, the aircraft struck trees and subsequently crashed in flames. The wreckage was located the following day, and both occupants were found deceased.

Investigation Findings

The official investigation determined the probable cause to be a controlled collision with ground during a low pass conducted at night. Contributing factors included misjudged altitude and clearance, the presence of high obstructions, and the decision to execute a second low pass which resulted in impact with trees.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 19 Sept 1976 Piper PA-31-350 Navajo Chieftain accident near Piñon, United States of America?

A twin-engine aircraft, returning from Mexico with 600 kilograms of marijuana, struck trees and crashed during a second low pass. Both occupants were killed. The investigation determined the accident was a controlled collision with ground at night, due to misjudged altitude and obstacles.

Were there any fatalities in the 19 Sept 1976 Piper PA-31-350 Navajo Chieftain accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 2 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 19 Sept 1976 involved a Piper PA-31-350 Navajo Chieftain, registration N54294, operated by Private United States of America, at Piñon, United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Controlled collision with ground during a low pass by night; contributing factors: misjudged altitude and clearance, high obstructions, hit trees on second low pass.