GRUMMAN AA5 near Longview, TX — 2016-03-18

Probable cause

The noninstrument-rated pilot's decision to depart into instrument meteorological conditions, which resulted in a loss of control.

NTSB narrative

The noninstrument-rated private pilot departed on a local flight in instrument meteorological conditions. A witness saw the airplane enter low overcast clouds immediately after takeoff. He heard the airplane begin a left turn, then saw the airplane emerge from the base of the overcast in a nose-down, steep left bank. The airplane subsequently reentered the clouds and the witness heard the impact a few minutes later. Evidence at the scene indicated that the airplane struck 40-ft tall trees and terrain, coming to rest inverted about 75 ft from the initial impact point. An examination of the airplane and its systems revealed no anomalies. Given that the pilot was not instrument-rated, it is likely that he experienced a loss of control of the airplane after entering instrument conditions.

Analysis

Primary failure mode

VFR into IMC

First missed decision gate

Pilot could have delayed takeoff due to low IMC conditions.

NTSB coding

• VFR encounter with IMC · Initial climb
• Experience / Qualifications

Evidence available

• Photos
• 2 docket documents

Docket documents2

• Memorandum of Conversationother
• Report Photosphotos

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