On July 14, 1991, a Piper PA-28-140 (registration N501FL) operated by Jim Fields was involved in an aviation accident near Driggs, ID. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S POOR INFLIGHT DECISION AND HIS IMPROPER COMPENSATION FOR WIND. FACTORS WERE RISING, MOUNTAINOUS TERRAIN; HIGH, GUSTY WINDS; AND A HIGH DENSITY ALTITUDE. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A Piper PA-28-140 departed an uncontrolled airport despite a CFI's warning, with the aircraft near gross weight and density altitude over 10,000 MSL, and impacted terrain at 7,000 feet MSL after entering a mountain valley.
Background
A local certified flight instructor (CFI) attempted to discourage the pilot of a Piper PA-28-140 from departing the uncontrolled airport. The aircraft was near its certified gross weight at the time of departure. The density altitude was reported to be over 10,000 MSL.
Flight
Widely scattered towering thunderstorms were building in the area. The pilot attempted to climb through a narrow mountain valley. At the time of the accident, winds were reported to be greater than 20 knots, with higher gusts and rapidly changing direction.
Accident
Just after passing the entrance to the valley, the aircraft impacted the terrain at 7,000 feet MSL.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 14 Jul 1991 Piper PA-28-140 accident near Driggs, ID?
A Piper PA-28-140 departed an uncontrolled airport despite a CFI's warning, with the aircraft near gross weight and density altitude over 10,000 MSL, and impacted terrain at 7,000 feet MSL after entering a mountain valley.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 14 Jul 1991 involved a Piper PA-28-140, registration N501FL, operated by Jim Fields, at Driggs, ID.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
THE PILOT'S POOR INFLIGHT DECISION AND HIS IMPROPER COMPENSATION FOR WIND. FACTORS WERE RISING, MOUNTAINOUS TERRAIN; HIGH, GUSTY WINDS; AND A HIGH DENSITY ALTITUDE.
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