On October 13, 1992, a Piper PA28-140 (registration N3940F) operated by Maples, Madge R. was involved in an aviation accident near Rosemead, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S POOR PREFLIGHT PLANNING/PREPARATION AND INTENTIONAL FLIGHT INTO INSTRUMENT METEOROLOGICAL CONDITIONS. FACTORS RELATING TO THIS ACCIDENT WERE THE PREVAILING LOW CEILING AND FOG. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A noninstrument rated pilot departed an airport in weather below VFR minimums within controlled airspace. Dense fog surrounded the area. Ground witnesses reported the aircraft circling before it plummeted through fog and crashed into a residence roof. Investigators found no preexisting malfunctions.
Incident
A noninstrument rated pilot departed an airport while the prevailing weather was less than visual flight rules (VFR) minimums within controlled airspace. Dense fog enveloped the area. Ground witnesses heard the aircraft circle the residential area several times.
Witness Accounts
One ground witness observed the aircraft plummet from the fog-shrouded area and crash into the roof of a residence. The witness reported that the fog began at an altitude above the height of a telephone pole.
Investigation
Safety board investigators did not find any evidence of preexisting malfunctions or failures in the aircraft.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 13 Oct 1992 Piper PA28-140 accident near Rosemead, CA?
A noninstrument rated pilot departed an airport in weather below VFR minimums within controlled airspace. Dense fog surrounded the area. Ground witnesses reported the aircraft circling before it plummeted through fog and crashed into a residence roof. Investigators found no preexisting malfunctions.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 13 Oct 1992 involved a Piper PA28-140, registration N3940F, operated by Maples, Madge R., at Rosemead, CA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
THE PILOT'S POOR PREFLIGHT PLANNING/PREPARATION AND INTENTIONAL FLIGHT INTO INSTRUMENT METEOROLOGICAL CONDITIONS. FACTORS RELATING TO THIS ACCIDENT WERE THE PREVAILING LOW CEILING AND FOG.
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