Casualties unknown

Pilot Encounters Fog During Takeoff, Aircraft Crashes Northwest of Airport (N52697)

Salem, OH, US

On February 15, 1984, a Cessna 177RG (registration N52697) operated by Harold W. Wurster was involved in an aviation accident near Salem, OH. 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

During takeoff to the west, a pilot encountered fog after being advised of areas of fog. The aircraft entered a right turn and crashed about 1 mile northwest of the airport, initially striking tree tops at 80 ft AGL.

Accident Overview

The pilot received a weather briefing and was advised of areas of fog. While taking off toward the west, he encountered fog. The aircraft entered a right turn about 1000 feet from the end of the runway and subsequently crashed about 1 mile northwest of the airport. The initial impact was with the tops of trees at approximately 80 feet above ground level.

Weather Conditions

Weather at a reporting station about 24 miles away was, in part: sky obscured, visibility 1/8 mile with fog. According to police, the weather at the departure airport was about the same. The weather at the airport was checked the next morning at the same time of day, and it was noted that the fog was heaviest at the departure end of the takeoff runway.

Accident Sequence

No further details about the sequence of events were provided in the official source.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 15 Feb 1984 Cessna 177RG accident near Salem, OH?

During takeoff to the west, a pilot encountered fog after being advised of areas of fog. The aircraft entered a right turn and crashed about 1 mile northwest of the airport, initially striking tree tops at 80 ft AGL.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 15 Feb 1984 involved a Cessna 177RG, registration N52697, operated by Harold W. Wurster, at Salem, OH.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X38718. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.