Pilot Debrief

PIPER PA-18-150 near McGrath, AK — 2010-08-12

Final reportANC10FA069
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Date
2010-08-12
Location
McGrath, AK, USA
Aircraft
PIPER PA-18-150
Registration
N2413H
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
Fatal
Fatalities
2
Phase of flight
Climb

Probable cause

The pilot’s continued visual flight into instrument meteorological conditions and the airplane’s subsequent aerodynamic stall, which resulted in an in-flight collision with mountainous terrain.

NTSB narrative

The pilot and passenger were in the first in a flight of two airplanes operating as a personal cross-country flight. As the flight progressed, both airplanes descended due to deteriorating weather conditions as they passed over an area of steep mountainous terrain. The second pilot said that visibility deteriorated to a point that it was difficult to discern topographical features. He then lost sight of the first airplane, so he elected to turn around. No further radio communications were received from the accident airplane. The airplane’s wreckage was subsequently found in an area of mountainous terrain, along the anticipated flight path, at the end of a box canyon. During the on-scene examination of the wreckage, no preaccident mechanical anomalies were discovered. Given the lack of mechanical anomalies, the reported weather conditions, and the statement of the pilot of the second airplane, it is likely that the pilot of the accident airplane flew into instrument meteorological conditions while trying to maneuver the airplane through mountainous terrain. Additionally, given the impact signatures, it’s likely that the pilot was attempting to avoid rising terrain by climbing the airplane, which resulted in an aerodynamic stall.

Analysis

Primary failure mode
VFR into IMC
First missed decision gate
Lead pilot should have turned back upon noticing deteriorating weather conditions.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

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

Docket documents7

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