On November 18, 1984, a Piper PA-38-112 (registration N2428L) was involved in an aviation accident near Wild Rose, WI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's preoccupation with identifying a person on the ground led to a lack of altitude awareness, resulting in the aircraft striking a tree. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
While searching for his father from the air, a pilot became preoccupied with identifying a person on the ground, lost altitude awareness, and struck a tree during a climbing left turn.
Incident Details
The pilot was flying at 500 feet above ground level over an open marsh. The area was surrounded by higher terrain covered with pine trees. The purpose of the flight was to locate the pilot's father, who was hunting in the vicinity.
Sequence of Events
According to the pilot, he became fixated on trying to identify an individual on the ground. Consequently, he failed to monitor his altitude. He initiated a climbing left turn, during which he heard an impact. It was later determined that the aircraft had struck a tree.
Investigation Findings
The investigation noted the pilot's statement regarding his preoccupation with the ground search. The tree strike occurred during the climbing turn. No other factors were identified in the source.
Probable cause
The pilot's preoccupation with identifying a person on the ground led to a lack of altitude awareness, resulting in the aircraft striking a tree.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 18 Nov 1984 Piper PA-38-112 accident near Wild Rose, WI?
While searching for his father from the air, a pilot became preoccupied with identifying a person on the ground, lost altitude awareness, and struck a tree during a climbing left turn.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 18 Nov 1984 involved a Piper PA-38-112, registration N2428L, at Wild Rose, WI.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's preoccupation with identifying a person on the ground led to a lack of altitude awareness, resulting in the aircraft striking a tree.
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