Casualties unknown

Passenger's First Flight Ends in Crash After Weather Diversions and Fuel Exhaustion (N5447W)

Apex, NC, US

On June 16, 1986, a Piper PA-28-160 (registration N5447W) was involved in an aviation accident near Apex, NC. 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

During a passenger's first flight, weather deteriorated, forcing the pilot to divert to multiple airports. After reporting low fuel, the engine failed and the aircraft crashed in a heavily wooded area.

Background

The flight was the first flight for the passenger. After approximately one and a half hours en route, the weather ahead deteriorated.

Diversion Attempts

The pilot turned to return to the departure airport, but weather there prevented a landing. He then turned to another airport, which was also in an area where weather prevented a landing. A further diversion to a third airport was made, but that location too was in an area of low weather.

Fuel and Engine Failure

The pilot reported being low on fuel and stated that he would attempt to reach another airport. Shortly thereafter, the engine quit. The pilot was unable to find a suitable landing area.

Crash

The aircraft crashed in a heavily wooded area. No further details about injuries or damage are provided in the source.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 16 Jun 1986 Piper PA-28-160 accident near Apex, NC?

During a passenger's first flight, weather deteriorated, forcing the pilot to divert to multiple airports. After reporting low fuel, the engine failed and the aircraft crashed in a heavily wooded area.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 16 Jun 1986 involved a Piper PA-28-160, registration N5447W, at Apex, NC.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X33770. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.