Casualties unknown

Pilot Overflies Airstrip, Descends into Canyon, and Reports Turbulence (N51AR)

Murphy Springs, ID, US

On July 24, 1994, a Piper PA-22-150 (registration N51AR) operated by Joshua L. Munger was involved in an aviation accident near Murphy Springs, ID. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S IMPROPER IN-FLIGHT DECISION TO MANEUVER IN A CANYON AT SUCH LOW ALTITUDE THAT HE COULD NOT OUT CLIMB THE ADJACENT RISING TERRAIN. 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

After overflying the destination airstrip to check for cattle, the pilot flew 3 miles away and descended into a canyon near a hot spring. Observing canyon walls close, he applied full power to climb but the airplane could not out climb the rising terrain. Turbulence was reported.

Incident Sequence

During a personal flight, the pilot conducted a pass over the destination airstrip to inspect the runway for the presence of cattle and other conditions. Following this inspection, the pilot flew approximately 3 miles away from the airstrip. He then initiated a descent into a canyon area located near a hot springs.

While descending, the pilot observed that the canyon walls were close to the airplane. In response, he applied full engine power in an attempt to climb out of the canyon. However, the airplane failed to out climb the rising terrain. The pilot reported experiencing turbulence in the area.

No further details about the outcome of the flight or damage to the aircraft were provided.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001206X01789. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.