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Night Departure from Private Airstrip Ends with Aircraft Striking Trees and Water (N42376)

Lopez, WA, US

On January 20, 1997, a Cessna 180J (registration N42376) was involved in an aviation accident near Lopez, WA. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's improper decision to initiate flight into marginal VFR conditions at night which led to inadvertent flight into instrument meteorological conditions, and his failure to maintain adequate clearance from 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 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

An airline transport pilot departed a private airstrip at night in marginal VFR conditions without a weather briefing or flight plan. After takeoff, the aircraft entered clouds and fog, leading to disorientation and collision with trees and water. The aircraft was substantially damaged; pilot and passenger suffered minor injuries.

Accident Overview

An airline transport pilot initiated a departure from a private airstrip during night hours. The weather at the time was reported as marginal VFR (visual flight rules) conditions. The pilot did not receive a weather briefing nor file a flight plan prior to the flight.

Sequence of Events

Immediately after departure, approximately 150 feet above ground level, the aircraft inadvertently entered instrument meteorological conditions consisting of clouds and fog. The pilot subsequently lost sight of the terrain and became disoriented. The airplane impacted trees and then descended into a body of water.

Damage and Injuries

The aircraft sustained substantial damage and sank. Both the pilot and the passenger escaped the accident with minor injuries.

Pilot Statement

The pilot reported that there were no mechanical malfunctions with the aircraft. He further stated that he should not have flown due to the uncertainty of favorable weather conditions.

Controlled flight into terrain

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 20 Jan 1997 Cessna 180J accident near Lopez, WA?

An airline transport pilot departed a private airstrip at night in marginal VFR conditions without a weather briefing or flight plan. After takeoff, the aircraft entered clouds and fog, leading to disorientation and collision with trees and water. The aircraft was substantially damaged; pilot and passenger suffered…

Were there any fatalities in the 20 Jan 1997 Cessna 180J accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 20 Jan 1997 involved a Cessna 180J, registration N42376, at Lopez, WA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's improper decision to initiate flight into marginal VFR conditions at night which led to inadvertent flight into instrument meteorological conditions, and his failure to maintain adequate clearance from terrain. Factors contributing to the accident were a low ceiling, fog, and dark night conditions.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X07364. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.