On July 5, 1994, a Cessna 185C (registration N5833T) operated by Teal, Dennis A. was involved in an aviation accident near Palouse, WA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain visual reference in conditions of dense fog, which resulted in controlled flight into terrain. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An airplane collided with rolling terrain while en route between two private airstrips. Witnesses reported hearing the aircraft circle before a thud was heard, with visibility limited to 75 feet due to dense fog.
What happened
The accident occurred while the airplane was en route from one private airstrip to another located at a short distance away. During this phase of flight, the aircraft collided with rolling terrain in a nose-down attitude.
A witness reported hearing the airplane circling the area prior to the impact. Shortly after, the witness heard a thud. Upon investigating the site, the witness found the area covered with dense fog, which limited visibility to approximately 75 feet.
The investigation
Examination of the accident site and the aircraft revealed no evidence to indicate that a mechanical failure or malfunction preceded the collision.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain visual reference in conditions of dense fog, which resulted in controlled flight into terrain.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 5 Jul 1994 Cessna 185C accident near Palouse, WA?
An airplane collided with rolling terrain while en route between two private airstrips. Witnesses reported hearing the aircraft circle before a thud was heard, with visibility limited to 75 feet due to dense fog.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 5 Jul 1994 involved a Cessna 185C, registration N5833T, operated by Teal, Dennis A., at Palouse, WA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to maintain visual reference in conditions of dense fog, which resulted in controlled flight into terrain.
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