Casualties unknown

Off-Airport Landing on Ridgeline Ends with Tree Strike and Ground Impact (N7894P)

Smoot, WY, US

On September 19, 1992, a Piper PA-18-150 (registration N7894P) operated by Bayorek, Barry E. was involved in an aviation accident near Smoot, WY. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT IN COMMAND'S DELAYED GO-AROUND. FACTORS CONTRIBUTING TO THE ACCIDENT WERE THE PILOT IN COMMAND'S SELECTION OF UNSUITABLE TERRAIN AND TREES. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

During an off-airport landing on a ridgetop against the passenger's wishes, the aircraft bounced on rough terrain, then struck a tree with its right wing after adding power and turning downslope.

Incident Overview

The pilot in command initiated an off-airport landing on a ridgetop, contrary to the passenger's expressed wishes. According to the passenger, the aircraft touched down on rough terrain, bounced several times, and was traveling too fast to stop before striking trees in the landing path but too slow to fly out.

Sequence of Events

After the initial touchdown and bouncing, the pilot added full power and turned the aircraft downslope. During this turn, the aircraft's right wing impacted a tree, with ground impact following immediately thereafter.

Passenger Account

The passenger reported that the aircraft's speed was insufficient to climb out but excessive to stop before the trees ahead. No further details regarding the aircraft's condition or occupant status were provided in the source.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X15779. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.