On October 18, 1986, a Piper PA-28-235 (registration N33808) was involved in an aviation accident near Jamestown, NY. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's decision to continue flight into marginal VFR conditions with low visibility and fog, resulting in controlled flight into terrain. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An aircraft operated by a non-instrument-rated pilot crashed into a wooded area shortly after takeoff during marginal visual flight rules weather conditions with dense fog.
What happened
The pilot, who did not hold an instrument rating, received a telephone weather briefing before the planned flight. The forecast indicated marginal visual flight rules (VFR) conditions along the route, with visibility reported at one-eighth of a mile and the presence of fog. Following the departure, the aircraft was located approximately 24 hours later in a heavily wooded area. The wreckage was found about 200 yards east of and parallel to the departure runway.
The investigation
An inspection of the wreckage revealed no evidence of pre-impact damage or mechanical malfunctions that would have contributed to the accident.
Probable cause
The pilot's decision to continue flight into marginal VFR conditions with low visibility and fog, resulting in controlled flight into terrain.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 18 Oct 1986 Piper PA-28-235 accident near Jamestown, NY?
An aircraft operated by a non-instrument-rated pilot crashed into a wooded area shortly after takeoff during marginal visual flight rules weather conditions with dense fog.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 18 Oct 1986 involved a Piper PA-28-235, registration N33808, at Jamestown, NY.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's decision to continue flight into marginal VFR conditions with low visibility and fog, resulting in controlled flight into terrain.
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