Pilot Debrief

CESSNA 150L near Goble, OR — 2012-03-15

Final reportWPR12FA136
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Date
2012-03-15
Location
Goble, OR, USA
Aircraft
CESSNA 150L
Registration
N18677
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
Fatal
Fatalities
2
Phase of flight
Climb

Probable cause

The flight instructor's decision to continue flight into the area of reduced visibility and the pilots’ subsequent failure to maintain clearance from the hilly terrain while operating in an area of low ceilings, rain, and fog.

NTSB narrative

The dual instructional flight was operated in an area where light rain, fog, and overcast ceilings were present. As the flight proceeded, it entered a hilly area with steady rain, low ceilings, and dense ground fog that extended to above tree height. While maneuvering in that area, the pilots did not maintain sufficient altitude, and the airplane impacted a tree that was likely hard to see because of the reduced visibility. Postaccident examination of the airframe and engine revealed no evidence of mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
VFR into IMC
First missed decision gate
Failure to check weather before departure from Pearson Airport.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • ADS-B / radar
  • Photos
  • 25 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents25

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