On May 6, 1999, a Piper PA28RT-201T (registration N8235Z) was involved in an aviation accident near Plymouth, MA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: undetermined (missing airplane). This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot departed under visual flight rules without a weather briefing or flight plan, disappearing from radar 30 minutes later. IMC was present near the last radar position. The pilot and aircraft remain missing.
Flight Details
The pilot departed under visual flight rules (VFR). No evidence suggests the pilot obtained a weather briefing, filed a flight plan, or established communication with the airplane after departure. The aircraft disappeared from radar approximately 30 minutes after takeoff. Neither the pilot nor the airplane has been located.
Weather Conditions
At the time of departure, visual meteorological conditions prevailed. However, instrument meteorological conditions were reported at an airport located about 5 miles northeast of the airplane's last recorded radar position.
Pilot Information
The pilot held an instrument rating. According to the most recent application for an FAA medical certificate, issued about one year prior, the pilot reported 2,900 hours of total flight experience.