On January 8, 1986, a Piper PA-28-181 (registration N8283T) operated by Aero Flight OF Oxnard was involved in an aviation accident near Livermore, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's decision to conduct a visual flight rules operation into instrument meteorological conditions with insufficient visibility due to dense fog. 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.
A pilot without instrument rating departed into IFR conditions despite dense fog, resulting in a crash shortly after takeoff near the departure airport.
What happened
The aircraft crashed shortly after takeoff, impacting the ground approximately one mile from the departure airport. At the time of the accident, Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) conditions prevailed at the site. Witnesses located in the immediate vicinity reported that visibility was severely restricted to between 15 and 20 feet due to dense fog.
Prior to his departure, the pilot telephoned his wife from the airport and stated that the weather conditions were clear. This statement contradicted the actual meteorological environment, which consisted of heavy fog that significantly impaired visual reference.
Probable cause
The pilot's decision to conduct a visual flight rules operation into instrument meteorological conditions with insufficient visibility due to dense fog.
What happened in the 8 Jan 1986 Piper PA-28-181 accident near Livermore, CA?
A pilot without instrument rating departed into IFR conditions despite dense fog, resulting in a crash shortly after takeoff near the departure airport.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 8 Jan 1986 involved a Piper PA-28-181, registration N8283T, operated by Aero Flight OF Oxnard, at Livermore, CA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's decision to conduct a visual flight rules operation into instrument meteorological conditions with insufficient visibility due to dense fog.
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