On August 4, 1992, a Piper PA-32R-300 (registration N7091C) operated by University Research Found. was involved in an aviation accident near Farmington, UT. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S POOR INFLIGHT DECISION. FACTORS INCLUDE DOWNDRAFTS AND A BOX CANYON. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot of a PA-32R-300 turned into a box canyon during en route climb, believing the climb rate would clear the ridge. Downdrafts reduced climb, and the pilot continued due to canyon narrowness, resulting in a controlled impact with terrain.
Accident Description
The pilot of a PA-32R-300 elected to turn into a box canyon during the en route climb to cruise altitude. At the time of the turn, the pilot assessed that the rate of climb would ensure clearance of the ridge at the canyon's end.
Sequence of Events
After entering the canyon, the aircraft encountered an area of downdrafts. The descending air reduced the rate of climb to a level that would not allow the aircraft to outclimb the rising terrain. By this point, the pilot considered that, due to the narrowness of the canyon, a successful reversal of course was not possible. The pilot therefore chose to continue up the canyon, ultimately flying the aircraft through a controlled impact with the terrain.
What happened in the 4 Aug 1992 Piper PA-32R-300 accident near Farmington, UT?
A pilot of a PA-32R-300 turned into a box canyon during en route climb, believing the climb rate would clear the ridge. Downdrafts reduced climb, and the pilot continued due to canyon narrowness, resulting in a controlled impact with terrain.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 4 Aug 1992 involved a Piper PA-32R-300, registration N7091C, operated by University Research Found., at Farmington, UT.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
THE PILOT'S POOR INFLIGHT DECISION. FACTORS INCLUDE DOWNDRAFTS AND A BOX CANYON.
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