The non-instrument-rated pilot’s decision to depart under visual flight rules into instrument meteorological conditions, which resulted in an inflight collision with terrain while maneuvering.
NTSB Accidents
Pilot Crashes When Blinded by Sun Glare
Probable Cause: The pilot’s improper decision to continue an approach with his vision obscured by sun glare, which resulted in a collision with a tree.
Nacelle Flies Off During Post-Maintenance Flight
Probable Cause: The failure of maintenance personnel to thoroughly inspect and repair the worn-out panel fasteners and fastener holes.
Pilot Seriously Injured When He Crashes Unfamiliar Airplane
Probable Cause: The pilot’s failure to attain/maintain aircraft control during an approach for landing that resulted in an impact with terrain.
Pilot’s Failure to See and Avoid Powerlines Proves Fatal
Probable Cause: The pilot’s failure to see and avoid powerlines while maneuvering at low altitude.
Student and CFI Land on Road After Starving the Engine of Fuel
Probable Cause: The student pilot’s lack of fuel management during the flight and the flight instructor’s inadequate monitoring of his student’s fuel management, resulting in fuel starvation and a forced landing to a highway.
Pilot Seriously Injured When Hit by Prop
Probable Cause: The pilot’s failure to disengage the ignition prior to moving the propeller by hand resulting in the inadvertent starting of the engine.
Landing On Snow-Covered Runway Goes Awry
Probable Cause: The flight crew’s decision to land on a snow-covered runway with a tailwind, resulting in a runway excursion and subsequent impact with terrain. Contributing to the accident, was the failure of the airport authority to plow the runway.
Mooney Bent After Bounced Landing
Probable Cause: The pilot’s improper landing flare, which resulted in a hard, bounced landing and runway excursion. Contributing to the accident was the flight instructor’s delayed remedial action.