On August 29, 1992, a Cessna 175A (registration N7032E) operated by Skylarkers, Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Pagosa Springs, CO. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT EXPERIENCING SPATIAL DISORIENTATION AND HIS FAILURE TO MAINTAIN AIRCRAFT CONTROL. FACTORS WERE: THE PILOT'S TOTAL LACK OF INSTRUMENT EXPERIENCE AND DARK NIGHT CONDITIONS. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A non-instrument rated pilot departed runway 01 on a dark, moonless night. A witness observed the aircraft making abrupt alternating banks before losing sight. The aircraft impacted the runway clear zone about 0.5 miles beyond the departure end. No mechanical discrepancies were found.
Departure and Witness Observations
A non-instrument rated pilot departed from runway 01 during a dark, clear night with no moon. A witness reported that immediately after departure, the aircraft executed a sharp left bank, followed by an immediate right bank, then another left bank, and an immediate right bank. The witness subsequently lost sight of the aircraft.
Impact and Investigation
The aircraft impacted the runway clear zone approximately 0.5 miles beyond the departure end of runway 01. Post-impact examination revealed no airframe or powerplant discrepancies. No further details regarding the pilot, aircraft, or injuries were provided in the investigation report.
What happened in the 29 Aug 1992 Cessna 175A accident near Pagosa Springs, CO?
A non-instrument rated pilot departed runway 01 on a dark, moonless night. A witness observed the aircraft making abrupt alternating banks before losing sight. The aircraft impacted the runway clear zone about 0.5 miles beyond the departure end. No mechanical discrepancies were found.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 29 Aug 1992 involved a Cessna 175A, registration N7032E, operated by Skylarkers, Inc., at Pagosa Springs, CO.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
THE PILOT EXPERIENCING SPATIAL DISORIENTATION AND HIS FAILURE TO MAINTAIN AIRCRAFT CONTROL. FACTORS WERE: THE PILOT'S TOTAL LACK OF INSTRUMENT EXPERIENCE AND DARK NIGHT CONDITIONS.
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