On May 27, 1997, a Piper PA-38 (registration N2362K) was involved in an aviation accident near Fruitland, UT. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain clearance from mountainous terrain. Factors include his improper inflight decision to attempt to fly through a mountain pass under high density altitude conditions in an aircraft that was operating near the limits of its… This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During a cross-country flight, a pilot tried to navigate a mountain pass above 8,500 feet. With density altitude exceeding 10,000 feet and climb rate under 100 ft/min, the aircraft encountered downdrafts that exceeded its climb capability, leading to terrain contact.
Accident Summary
A cross-country flight through mountainous terrain ended when the aircraft struck terrain while attempting to traverse a mountain pass. The pilot was flying the return leg of the journey.
Flight Details
The pilot attempted to fly through a mountain pass that was more than 8,500 feet high. At the time of the accident, the density altitude in the area was greater than 10,000 feet. According to the Pilot's Operating Handbook, the aircraft's expected climb rate under those conditions would be less than 100 feet per minute.
Environmental Factors
While the pilot was trying to get through the pass, the aircraft encountered downdrafts. The rate of descent caused by the downdrafts exceeded the aircraft's maximum climb capability. Although the pilot attempted to outclimb the sinking air, he could not prevent the aircraft from descending into the terrain.