On June 6, 1993, a Piper PA-23-150 (registration N522T) operated by Norman E. Lamantia was involved in an aviation accident near Diablo, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT IN COMMAND'S CONTINUED FLIGHT INTO INSTRUMENT METEOROLOGICAL CONDITIONS, AND THE IMPROPER IN FLIGHT PLANNING AND DECISION MAKING BY THE PILOT. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An airplane impacted mountainous terrain in a near wings-level attitude during IMC. Witnesses reported normal engine sounds. No record of pilot obtaining weather briefing; no mechanical failures found. Propellers exhibited chordwise scratches and 'S' bending.
Introduction
An airplane collided with mountainous terrain while flying in instrument meteorological conditions. The aircraft was in a near wings-level attitude at the time of impact.
Details
Witnesses near the accident location reported hearing normal engine sounds as the airplane flew overhead. Investigators found no record of the pilot obtaining a weather briefing prior to departure.
Investigation Findings
Examination of the aircraft wreckage revealed no mechanical failures or malfunctions. Both propellers showed chordwise scratches and 'S' bending, consistent with rotation at impact. The terrain was mountainous, and conditions were instrument meteorological.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 6 Jun 1993 Piper PA-23-150 accident near Diablo, CA?
An airplane impacted mountainous terrain in a near wings-level attitude during IMC. Witnesses reported normal engine sounds. No record of pilot obtaining weather briefing; no mechanical failures found. Propellers exhibited chordwise scratches and 'S' bending.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 6 Jun 1993 involved a Piper PA-23-150, registration N522T, operated by Norman E. Lamantia, at Diablo, CA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
THE PILOT IN COMMAND'S CONTINUED FLIGHT INTO INSTRUMENT METEOROLOGICAL CONDITIONS, AND THE IMPROPER IN FLIGHT PLANNING AND DECISION MAKING BY THE PILOT.
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