Casualties unknown

Non-Instrument Rated Pilot Crashes While Attempting Landing in Low Visibility (N20LA)

Louisa, VA, US

On April 30, 1995, a Piper PA-28-180 (registration N20LA) was involved in an aviation accident near Louisa, VA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the non-instrument rated private pilot's continued VFR flight into IMC and failure to maintain adequate altitude/clearance from terrain/obstacles. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 4 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A non-instrument rated private pilot crashed into trees near a destination airport after being advised of instrument meteorological conditions. Witnesses reported low ceiling and visibility with rain and fog.

Accident Overview

A non-instrument rated private pilot was flying to a destination airport to pick up a passenger for a subsequent flight to New York. Upon arriving in the vicinity of the airport, the pilot contacted UNICOM for assistance in locating the airport due to reduced visibility. The pilot was informed that instrument meteorological conditions (IMC) prevailed at the destination airport.

Weather and Witness Reports

Witnesses reported that the ceiling was approximately 200 feet, and the visibility was less than one mile with rain and fog. These conditions were consistent with IMC as advised by UNICOM.

Collision with Terrain

The airplane collided with trees approximately 500 yards from the airport. No further details about the impact or subsequent events were provided in the investigation source.

Post-Accident Examination

Examination of the airplane did not disclose evidence of mechanical malfunction. The investigation noted no anomalies with the aircraft systems or structure that could have contributed to the accident.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 30 Apr 1995 Piper PA-28-180 accident near Louisa, VA?

A non-instrument rated private pilot crashed into trees near a destination airport after being advised of instrument meteorological conditions. Witnesses reported low ceiling and visibility with rain and fog.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 30 Apr 1995 involved a Piper PA-28-180, registration N20LA, at Louisa, VA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

the non-instrument rated private pilot's continued VFR flight into IMC and failure to maintain adequate altitude/clearance from terrain/obstacles. Related factors were the pilot's lack of total experience in IMC operations, his failure to obtain a preflight weather briefing, and the fog and low ceiling.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001207X03234. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.