CESSNA 172G near Silver City, ID — 2012-05-27

Probable cause

The pilot‘s failure to maintain airspeed while maneuvering in mountainous terrain with reduced visibility, which resulted in an aerodynamic stall.

NTSB narrative

The pilot stated that he was maneuvering over mountainous terrain in deteriorating weather conditions and reduced visibility when the airplane stalled. He pushed the nose down to recover from the aerodynamic stall and then abruptly pitched the nose up to avoid oncoming rising terrain. The airplane subsequently impacted trees and settled to the ground. The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation.

Analysis

Primary failure mode

Spatial disorientation

First missed decision gate

Pilot could have chosen not to continue flight in deteriorating weather conditions.

NTSB coding

• Aerodynamic stall/spin · Maneuvering
• Maneuvering Stall

Evidence available

• Photos
• 3 docket documents

Docket documents3

• Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident Report, NTSB Form 6120.1form
• Passenger Record of Conversationother
• Photo 1: Overview Accident Airplanephotos

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