1997-06-07: Piper PA-25 — Sullivan, MO

Casualties unknown • Sullivan, MO, US

Probable cause

the pilot's continued VFR flight into instrument meteorological conditions in an airplane not equipped for flight into IMC. Factors were: the pilot's inadequate preflight preparation, his inadequate evaluation of the weather, and fog.

— NTSB Determination

Accident narrative

The pilot departed with charts which did not depict accurately the area the airplane overflew. He continued VFR flight into IMC conditions. The airplane was not equipped nor certificated for flight in instrument conditions. While in cruise flight, the airplane impacted a 971' tower 30' below the top. A witness at the accident site indicated that visibility was restricted to 100 yards in fog. Toxicological analysis of blood from the pilot revealed high levels of fluoxetine (Prozac) and norfluoxetine (metabolite of fluoxetine).

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1997-06-07 Piper PA-25 accident near Sullivan, MO?

The pilot departed with charts which did not depict accurately the area the airplane overflew. He continued VFR flight into IMC conditions. The airplane was not equipped nor certificated for flight in instrument conditions. While in cruise flight, the airplane impacted a 971' tower 30' below the top. A witness at the…

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1997-06-07 involved a Piper PA-25, registration N6339Z, at Sullivan, MO.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

the pilot's continued VFR flight into instrument meteorological conditions in an airplane not equipped for flight into IMC. Factors were: the pilot's inadequate preflight preparation, his inadequate evaluation of the weather, and fog.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X08076. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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