Casualties unknown

Pilot Descends Through Cloud Opening, Encounters Terrain in Mountain Pass (N9327N)

Cleveland, SC, US

On December 24, 1982, a Piper PA-28R-200 (registration N9327N) operated by Curtis Marsh was involved in an aviation accident near Cleveland, SC. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A VFR pilot descended through a broken cloud layer into a narrow pass with hills, attempted to turn, and struck trees after entering a cloud.

Incident Overview

A pilot flying under visual flight rules (VFR) above a broken cloud layer decided to descend through an opening in the clouds. After breaking clear, the pilot found the aircraft in a mountain pass with hills on both sides and insufficient room to turn around.

Flight Path

The pilot continued northbound along a highway, hoping the pass would widen. As the highway began to rise over a hill, the aircraft entered a cloud. The pilot executed a steep turn and had nearly completed a 180-degree turn when he saw that the aircraft was about to crash into trees.

Outcome

The aircraft subsequently struck trees. No further details about damage, injuries, or the aircraft are provided in the source.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 24 Dec 1982 Piper PA-28R-200 accident near Cleveland, SC?

A VFR pilot descended through a broken cloud layer into a narrow pass with hills, attempted to turn, and struck trees after entering a cloud.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 24 Dec 1982 involved a Piper PA-28R-200, registration N9327N, operated by Curtis Marsh, at Cleveland, SC.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020917X04334. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.