Casualties unknown

1990-02-18: Mooney M20F (N4093N) — Galt, CA

Galt, CA, US

On February 18, 1990, a Mooney M20F (registration N4093N) was involved in an aviation accident near Galt, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT FLEW INTO INSTRUMENT CONDITION, BECAUSE SPATIALLY DISORIENTATED AND COLLIDED WITH TERRAIN. FACTOR WAS FOGGY WEATHER CONDITIONS. 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 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

A non-instrument-rated pilot, despite a weather briefing advising against VFR flight, departed southbound. He was seen below a 500-foot cloud base before encountering ground fog with 1/4-mile visibility at the crash site. The aircraft struck the ground nose- and right-wing-low.

Background

An investigation into an accident involving a non-instrument-rated pilot has been completed. The pilot had received a weather briefing prior to departure that indicated VFR (visual flight rules) flying along his proposed southbound route was not recommended. Despite this advisory, the pilot filed a VFR flight plan and departed.

Flight Details

As the pilot flew southbound, he was observed flying below the base of clouds, which was reported to be at 500 feet above ground level (AGL). Several minutes later, the pilot encountered ground fog that reduced his visibility. A ground-based witness at the crash site reported that his own visibility was 1/4 mile.

Accident Sequence

The airplane subsequently collided with the ground in a nose-low and right-wing-low attitude. The specific sequence of events leading to the impact was not detailed in the source.

Investigation Findings

The investigation did not provide a probable cause for the accident. No further analysis or conclusions were given beyond the factual circumstances described.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X22581. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.