On August 6, 1983, a Cessna 172 (registration N64196) was involved in an aviation accident near San Simeon, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause of this accident: the pilot's failure to maintain terrain clearance during a pleasure flight. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
Aircraft collided with terrain during a pleasure flight, impacting a box canyon at 3500 feet MSL. Investigators found no mechanical failure to explain the crash.
What happened
The aircraft was engaged in a pleasure flight for the purpose of sightseeing when it collided with the terrain. The wreckage was located within a box canyon at an altitude of 3500 feet MSL. Examination of the accident site indicated that the aircraft impacted the ground on a heading of approximately 085 degrees. The surrounding mountain peaks in the area reach elevations of up to 5155 feet MSL.
The investigation
A thorough examination of the accident site and wreckage was conducted to determine the cause of the incident. Investigators analyzed the impact patterns and the condition of the aircraft components upon recovery. However, the investigation did not reveal any mechanical failure or other technical reason for the crash.
Probable cause
The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause of this accident: the pilot's failure to maintain terrain clearance during a pleasure flight.
What happened in the 6 Aug 1983 Cessna 172 accident near San Simeon, CA?
Aircraft collided with terrain during a pleasure flight, impacting a box canyon at 3500 feet MSL. Investigators found no mechanical failure to explain the crash.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 6 Aug 1983 involved a Cessna 172, registration N64196, at San Simeon, CA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause of this accident: the pilot's failure to maintain terrain clearance during a pleasure flight.
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