Casualties unknown

1996-08-12: American AA-1 (N5616L) — Rosamond, CA

Rosamond, CA, US

On August 12, 1996, an American AA-1 (registration N5616L) was involved in an aviation accident near Rosamond, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's inadequate preflight planning and his delayed decision to reverse the airplane's direction. 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 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot attempting to cross a high-altitude mountain pass encountered diminished climb capability due to high density altitude. After reversing direction for a circling climb, the aircraft struck a tree. The pilot was found by a resident about 30 hours later.

Incident Overview

A pilot reported that while attempting to cross a high-altitude mountain pass, the airplane's climb performance was reduced because of the prevailing high density altitude. In response, the pilot reversed direction to initiate a circling climb, but the aircraft subsequently struck a tree.

Pilot Account

According to the pilot, the engine operated normally throughout the flight, and no preimpact malfunctions or failures were experienced. After the accident, a nearby resident discovered the pilot and the wreckage approximately 30 hours later.

Additional Details

The source provides no further information regarding the aircraft type, registration, date, operator, location, or number of occupants. No assessments of injuries, damage, weather conditions, or air traffic control involvement were included in the report.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X06552. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.