1 fatality

Non-Instrument Rated Pilot Loses Control in Night Instrument Meteorological Conditions (N182FW)

Tenino, WA, US

On March 4, 1986, a Cessna 182P (registration N182FW) was involved in an aviation accident near Tenino, WA. One person was killed. 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

A non-instrument rated pilot departed without a flight plan or weather briefing. About 35 minutes into the flight, the pilot became spatially disoriented and lost control, leading to a collision with terrain.

Accident Overview

A non-instrument rated pilot conducted a flight at night in instrument meteorological conditions without filing a flight plan or obtaining a weather briefing. Low ceilings were present near the accident location. The pilot had minimal overall instrument experience and no evidence of recent instrument flying.

Sequence of Events

Approximately 35 minutes after departure, the pilot experienced spatial disorientation and subsequently lost control of the aircraft. Shortly thereafter, the aircraft impacted the terrain.

Pilot Background

The pilot was not rated for instrument flight. His total instrument flying experience was minimal, and there was no indication that he had performed any instrument flying recently.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 4 Mar 1986 Cessna 182P accident near Tenino, WA?

A non-instrument rated pilot departed without a flight plan or weather briefing. About 35 minutes into the flight, the pilot became spatially disoriented and lost control, leading to a collision with terrain.

Were there any fatalities in the 4 Mar 1986 Cessna 182P accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 1 fatality.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 4 Mar 1986 involved a Cessna 182P, registration N182FW, at Tenino, WA.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X33173. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.