On September 6, 1991, a Piper PA32RT-300T (registration N3006J) operated by Stanley K. Williams was involved in an aviation accident near Mayfield, UT. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's decision to continue flying into deteriorating weather conditions, which resulted in controlled flight into terrain. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot turned around mid-flight due to weather conditions that prevented continued VFR flight. The aircraft was later found at high altitude in mountainous terrain.
What happened
During a cross-country flight, the pilot reported turning around to return to the departure point because of weather conditions that did not permit continued flight under visual flight rules (VFR). The last known position of the aircraft was at an altitude of 10,500 feet, situated between cloud layers. Subsequently, the wreckage was located at an elevation of 10,800 feet in mountainous terrain that rose to 11,000 feet.
The investigation
The physical evidence indicated that the aircraft came to rest in rugged, high-elevation ground. The location of the debris field suggested a loss of controlled flight or impact with the terrain while operating in adverse weather conditions.
Probable cause
The pilot's decision to continue flying into deteriorating weather conditions, which resulted in controlled flight into terrain.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 6 Sept 1991 Piper PA32RT-300T accident near Mayfield, UT?
A pilot turned around mid-flight due to weather conditions that prevented continued VFR flight. The aircraft was later found at high altitude in mountainous terrain.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 6 Sept 1991 involved a Piper PA32RT-300T, registration N3006J, operated by Stanley K. Williams, at Mayfield, UT.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's decision to continue flying into deteriorating weather conditions, which resulted in controlled flight into terrain.
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