On April 12, 1992, a Piper PA-28-140 (registration N7248J) operated by Partlow, Allen L. was involved in an aviation accident near Young Harris, GA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE FAILURE OF THE PILOT TO MAINTAIN CLEARANCE FROM TERRAIN. FACTORS IN THE ACCIDENT WERE THE DARK NIGHT, RAIN, AND MOUNTAINOUS TERRAIN. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
Witnesses reported an aircraft circling in mountainous valleys for about ten minutes before impacting a ridge top. The night was very dark with light rain but good visibility. The engine was heard running until impact.
Witness Observations
Witnesses reported observing the aircraft circling in the valleys of the mountainous terrain for approximately ten minutes prior to the accident. They stated that it was a very dark night and light rain was falling in the area. Despite the rain, visibility was reported to be good by the witnesses. At the time they observed the aircraft, they could hear the engine running.
Accident Overview
The aircraft impacted the terrain at the top of a ridge line. Large grass fields were located immediately adjacent to the ridge line, in the direction of impact. No further details regarding the aircraft or occupants have been provided.
Terrain and Conditions
The accident occurred in mountainous terrain during a very dark night with light rain conditions. The witnesses reported good visibility despite the rain.
What happened in the 12 Apr 1992 Piper PA-28-140 accident near Young Harris, GA?
Witnesses reported an aircraft circling in mountainous valleys for about ten minutes before impacting a ridge top. The night was very dark with light rain but good visibility. The engine was heard running until impact.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 12 Apr 1992 involved a Piper PA-28-140, registration N7248J, operated by Partlow, Allen L., at Young Harris, GA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
THE FAILURE OF THE PILOT TO MAINTAIN CLEARANCE FROM TERRAIN. FACTORS IN THE ACCIDENT WERE THE DARK NIGHT, RAIN, AND MOUNTAINOUS TERRAIN.
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