Casualties unknown

Pilot Reports Off-Course, Collision with Trees During Cloud Encounter (N7832N)

Eatonville, WA, US

On September 17, 1999, a Piper PA-28-180 (registration N7832N) was involved in an aviation accident near Eatonville, WA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Inadequate inflight planning/preparation and terrain clearance not maintained. Mountainous terrain, cloudy conditions and delayed remedial action are factors. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 4 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A VFR pilot got off course and encountered rising terrain obscured by clouds. While attempting a course reversal, the aircraft struck trees on up-sloping terrain. No mechanical issues were reported.

Incident Overview

A pilot reported that during a VFR flight, he deviated from his intended course and subsequently encountered rising terrain that was obscured by clouds. In an attempt to correct the situation, the pilot initiated a course reversal. However, approximately halfway through the turn, the aircraft collided with several trees situated on up-sloping terrain.

Pilot Statement

The pilot stated that there were no mechanical failures or malfunctions with the aircraft at the time of the accident. The aircraft was operating normally prior to the impact.

Terrain and Weather

The terrain in the area was rising and partially covered by clouds, which limited visibility. The pilot's attempt to reverse course was not completed before the collision occurred.

Investigation Details

No further information regarding the aircraft type, registration, or specific location was provided in the pilot's account. The investigation will focus on the circumstances leading to the deviation from course and the decision to reverse direction in the presence of obstructed terrain.

All Piper PA-28 Cherokee accidents →

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 17 Sept 1999 Piper PA-28-180 accident near Eatonville, WA?

A VFR pilot got off course and encountered rising terrain obscured by clouds. While attempting a course reversal, the aircraft struck trees on up-sloping terrain. No mechanical issues were reported.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 17 Sept 1999 involved a Piper PA-28-180, registration N7832N, at Eatonville, WA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Inadequate inflight planning/preparation and terrain clearance not maintained. Mountainous terrain, cloudy conditions and delayed remedial action are factors

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001212X19886. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.