Casualties unknown

Pilot Reports Turbulence Encounter Led to Loss of Control and Collision with Terrain (N9335J)

Lexington, NY, US

On February 20, 1984, a Piper PA-28-180 (registration N9335J) was involved in an aviation accident near Lexington, NY. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: An encounter with turbulence caused a loss of control and collision with terrain during the recovery. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 4 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

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

A pilot flying without a flight plan reported that turbulence caused a loss of control and collision with terrain during recovery, after a weather briefing forecast low ceilings, obscured mountains, and turbulence.

Weather Briefing and Flight Preparation

According to the accident report, the weather briefing for the area forecast low ceilings, mountains obscured, and light to moderate turbulence. VFR flight was not recommended. The pilot did not file a flight plan for the flight.

Pilot Report

The pilot reported that an encounter with turbulence caused a loss of control and collision with terrain during the recovery. The pilot also stated that at the time, they were at 2,000 feet approximately 20 miles west of the proposed route.

Witness Observation

A witness observed the aircraft in level flight, flying in and out of clouds. The witness then saw the aircraft make a shallow left turn toward the mountain, followed by sounds of impact.

Additional Details

No other information about the aircraft, occupants, or specific location was provided in the source.

Probable cause

An encounter with turbulence caused a loss of control and collision with terrain during the recovery.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 20 Feb 1984 Piper PA-28-180 accident near Lexington, NY?

A pilot flying without a flight plan reported that turbulence caused a loss of control and collision with terrain during recovery, after a weather briefing forecast low ceilings, obscured mountains, and turbulence.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 20 Feb 1984 involved a Piper PA-28-180, registration N9335J, at Lexington, NY.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

An encounter with turbulence caused a loss of control and collision with terrain during the recovery.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X38894. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.