On October 4, 1998, a Cessna 172 (registration N6867X) operated by David C. Penz was involved in an aviation accident near Russian Mission, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's inadequate compensation for wind conditions. Factors associated with the accident are rising terrain, and a downdraft. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A commercial pilot reported that during takeoff from a valley airstrip, the airplane encountered a strong downdraft and collided with trees, resulting in substantial damage to the wings and fuselage.
Accident Overview
A commercial pilot was involved in an accident during takeoff from an airstrip located within a valley. The terrain around the airstrip rises on three sides. The pilot reported that the wind was blowing from the northwest at about 15 to 20 knots.
Pilot Report
The pilot elected to depart to the west, in the direction of rising terrain. Shortly after takeoff, the airplane encountered a strong downdraft. The pilot stated that the airplane failed to gain sufficient altitude to clear the rising terrain. Subsequently, the airplane collided with a stand of trees.
Damage
The airplane sustained substantial damage to its wings and fuselage. No further details regarding the aircraft or occupants were provided in the report.
What happened in the 4 Oct 1998 Cessna 172 accident near Russian Mission, AK?
A commercial pilot reported that during takeoff from a valley airstrip, the airplane encountered a strong downdraft and collided with trees, resulting in substantial damage to the wings and fuselage.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 4 Oct 1998 involved a Cessna 172, registration N6867X, operated by David C. Penz, at Russian Mission, AK.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's inadequate compensation for wind conditions. Factors associated with the accident are rising terrain, and a downdraft.
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