Pilot Debrief

PIPER PA-12 near Rye, CO — 2012-08-31

Final reportCEN12FA594
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Date
2012-08-31
Location
Rye, CO, USA
Aircraft
PIPER PA-12
Registration
N3031M
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
Fatal
Fatalities
2
Phase of flight
Maneuvering

Probable cause

The pilot’s selection of a flightpath toward rising terrain that exceeded the climb capability of the airplane.

NTSB narrative

While maneuvering in mountainous terrain at high density altitude conditions, the pilot impacted a ridge area. An evaluation of the terrain near the accident site and the performance capabilities of the airplane indicated that the pilot selected a route of flight toward rising terrain that the airplane could not climb sufficiently quickly to avoid. Examination of the airframe, engine, and propeller did not reveal any preimpact failures or malfunctions that would have precluded normal operation.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
Controlled flight into terrain
First missed decision gate
Pilot could have avoided maneuvering towards mountainous terrain.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • Video
  • Photos
  • 9 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents9

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