Pilot Debrief

PIPER PA-28-140 near Ellenville, NY — 2013-05-30

Final reportERA13CA260
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Date
2013-05-30
Location
Ellenville, NY, USA
Airport
N89
Aircraft
PIPER PA-28-140
Registration
N5715F
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
Minor
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The student pilot's inadequate preflight planning and failure to maintain clearance from rising terrain, which resulted in controlled flight into terrain.

NTSB narrative

The student pilot reported that she was returning to her home airport after being discontinued from her private pilot practical test. Upon departure and initial climb, she maneuvered the airplane into a valley and proceeded to attempt a climb over a ridge that was approximately 1,500 feet higher than the departure airport elevation. The student pilot stated that she knew as soon as she flew into the valley, the airplane was not going to be able to climb over the ridge, and that she was unable to turn the airplane around. She added that she performed a "controlled" crash into the trees. Examination of the airplane revealed substantial damage to the fuselage and to both wings. The student pilot reported no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • Photos
  • 7 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents7

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