On March 15, 1986, a Cessna 172K (registration N7374G) was involved in an aviation accident near Stone Mountain, GA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain visual reference during flight in marginal weather conditions, attributed to his impairment by alcohol. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An aircraft crashed into a wooded area approximately three-quarters of a mile from the airport shortly after takeoff due to low visibility conditions and pilot impairment.
What happened
Shortly after departing the airport, the pilot encountered significantly reduced visibility caused by fog. Attempting to return for landing, the aircraft crashed in a wooded area located approximately three-quarters of a mile from the airfield.
Witness information indicated that prevailing weather conditions included scattered clouds at 3,000 feet and visibility ranging between one and one-half miles with fog present.
The investigation
A post-accident examination of the pilot's blood revealed an alcohol concentration of 0.17 grams percent, indicating significant impairment at the time of the incident.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain visual reference during flight in marginal weather conditions, attributed to his impairment by alcohol.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 15 Mar 1986 Cessna 172K accident near Stone Mountain, GA?
An aircraft crashed into a wooded area approximately three-quarters of a mile from the airport shortly after takeoff due to low visibility conditions and pilot impairment.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 15 Mar 1986 involved a Cessna 172K, registration N7374G, at Stone Mountain, GA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to maintain visual reference during flight in marginal weather conditions, attributed to his impairment by alcohol.
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