On June 22, 1982, a Piper PA-28-R-180 (registration N3901T) operated by Professional Investment Associ was involved in an aviation accident near Cameron, MT. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot reported encountering a downdraft while climbing over rising terrain near mountains, resulting in loss of airspeed and altitude. The landing gear extended automatically, and despite emergency override activation, the aircraft crashed into trees at 7000 ft elevation.
Accident Summary
A pilot reported that while climbing over rising terrain in a foothills area near mountains, the aircraft encountered a downdraft. This resulted in a loss of airspeed and altitude when the aircraft was approximately 1000 feet from the crest of the terrain.
Sequence of Events
According to the pilot, around the time the downdraft was encountered, the landing gear extended automatically. The pilot then made a turn over a lesser rise and actuated the landing gear emergency override. Despite these actions, the aircraft continued to lose airspeed and subsequently crashed into trees in a wooded area.
Environmental Conditions
The crash site elevation was about 7000 feet. The pilot estimated the temperature to be 60 degrees Fahrenheit.
What happened in the 22 Jun 1982 Piper PA-28-R-180 accident near Cameron, MT?
A pilot reported encountering a downdraft while climbing over rising terrain near mountains, resulting in loss of airspeed and altitude. The landing gear extended automatically, and despite emergency override activation, the aircraft crashed into trees at 7000 ft elevation.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 22 Jun 1982 involved a Piper PA-28-R-180, registration N3901T, operated by Professional Investment Associ, at Cameron, MT.
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