PIPER PA-12 near Dixie, ID — 2026-06-23

Probable cause

The pilot's delayed decision to initiate a go-around and subsequent failure to maintain clearance from rising terrain.

NTSB narrative

The pilot reported that during final approach to a runway in mountainous terrain, the airplane was high. He made a right 360° turn to descend quickly before entering the base leg for . The pilot continued the approach, and the airplane floated down the runway. When he realized that the airplane would not be able to stop on the remaining runway, he initiated a go-around. The pilot was unable to maintain clearance from the rising terrain beyond the runway and maneuvered to avoid obstacles before intentionally landing the airplane on a rocky hillside, where the airplane nosed over and came to rest inverted. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

NTSB coding

• Controlled flight into terr/obj (CFIT) · Approach-VFR go-around
• Collision during takeoff/land · Approach-VFR go-around
• Go-Around (VFR)
• Decision Making / Judgment

Evidence available

• Photos
• 2 docket documents

Docket documents2

• PILOT/OPERATOR AIRCRAFT ACCIDENT REPORT, NTSB FORM 6120.1form
• PHOTOSphotos

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