On December 3, 1995, a Piper PA-28-140 (registration N1945H) was involved in an aviation accident near Somerset, PA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's improper planning/decision and use of unsuitable terrain for a precautionary landing, which resulted in a collision with an embankment and subsequent nose over of the airplane. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During a cross-country flight in deteriorating weather, the pilot reported VOR failure and no other nav equipment. Unable to locate the airport due to wind drift, low fuel, and darkness, he made a precautionary landing in a field. The airplane touched down long, became airborne, struck an embankment, and nosed over.
Flight Details
A pilot conducting a cross-country flight encountered deteriorating weather conditions. According to the pilot's report, the airplane's VOR navigation equipment failed, and no other navigation equipment was available on board.
Events Leading to Landing
The pilot stated that wind must have blown the airplane off course, and he was unable to locate the destination airport. Citing a low fuel state and approaching darkness, the pilot elected to perform a precautionary landing in a field.
Landing and Outcome
The airplane touched down long and fast during the landing attempt. It became airborne again after touchdown, then struck a dirt embankment and nosed over. The sequence resulted in the aircraft coming to rest inverted.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 3 Dec 1995 Piper PA-28-140 accident near Somerset, PA?
During a cross-country flight in deteriorating weather, the pilot reported VOR failure and no other nav equipment. Unable to locate the airport due to wind drift, low fuel, and darkness, he made a precautionary landing in a field. The airplane touched down long, became airborne, struck an embankment, and nosed over.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 3 Dec 1995 involved a Piper PA-28-140, registration N1945H, at Somerset, PA.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
the pilot's improper planning/decision and use of unsuitable terrain for a precautionary landing, which resulted in a collision with an embankment and subsequent nose over of the airplane. Factors relating to the accident were: the adverse weather conditions, and approaching darkness (dusk).