PIPER PA-32R-301T near Laramie Peak, WY — 2012-10-09

Probable cause

The noninstrument-rated pilot’s continued visual flight into instrument meteorological conditions, which resulted in his failure to maintain sufficient clearance from rising terrain.

NTSB narrative

The noninstrument-rated pilot departed on a visual flight rules (VFR) cross-county flight with a planned intermediate fuel stop. Following the intermediate fuel stop, the pilot continued the flight toward his intended destination. Recorded radar data showed the airplane in level flight at 8,500 feet mean sea level (msl) for about 12 minutes followed by a slow climb. The last recorded radar target was located about 1/4 mile from the accident site at an altitude of about 9,700 feet msl. Examination of the accident site revealed that the airplane collided with rising mountainous terrain just below the peak of a ridgeline. Weather conditions at the departure and destination airports were VFR; however, AIRMETs for instrument meteorological conditions (IMC), mountain obscuration, and moderate icing conditions were in effect throughout the area around the time of the accident. It is likely that the pilot continued visual flight into IMC, which resulted in his failure to maintain sufficient clearance from rising terrain. It could not be determined if the pilot obtained a weather briefing for the flight. A postaccident examination of the airframe and engine revealed no evidence of preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation.

Analysis

Primary failure mode

VFR into IMC

First missed decision gate

Pilot could have chosen to avoid mountainous terrain due to weather conditions.

NTSB coding

• Controlled flight into terr/obj (CFIT) · Enroute-change of cruise level
• Decision Making / Judgment
• Experience / Qualifications
• Planning / Preparation

Evidence available

• ADS-B / radar
• Photos
• 8 docket documents

Docket documents8

• ATC Radar Studyatc
• Certification of Party Representativesother
• FAA Airman Application 8710 - Pilotother
• N110UM 1200 Codes 1900-1944 UTCother
• N110UM Maintenance Log (excerpt)other
• Airframe and Engine Examination w/8 embedded photosphotos
• Toxicological Report - Pilotreport
• Wreckage Releasewreckage

Related mishaps

• PIPER PA-32R-301

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