On May 28, 2000, a Cessna 172 (registration N7902B) was involved in an aviation accident near Johnson Creek, ID. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain clearance from the rising terrain. Factors include his poor decision to depart without assurance that he could clear the surrounding terrain under the ambient conditions, his failure to adhere to the accepted procedure of… 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 pilot departing from a mountain airstrip with a southerly takeoff, contrary to the recommended northerly direction, encountered downdrafts and impacted tree tops after failing to lean the fuel mixture for high density altitude.
Departure and Conditions
The pilot of an aircraft at a mountain airstrip opted for a southerly departure due to winds blowing from the south, despite the recommendation to take off to the north whenever wind conditions permit. The aircraft was heavily loaded and operated at a density altitude of approximately 6,500 feet. The pilot did not lean the fuel mixture for best power during the departure.
Encounter and Impact
After becoming airborne, the aircraft encountered downdrafts and was unable to climb above the rising forested terrain. Subsequently, the aircraft impacted the tops of the trees.
What happened in the 28 May 2000 Cessna 172 accident near Johnson Creek, ID?
A pilot departing from a mountain airstrip with a southerly takeoff, contrary to the recommended northerly direction, encountered downdrafts and impacted tree tops after failing to lean the fuel mixture for high density altitude.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 28 May 2000 involved a Cessna 172, registration N7902B, at Johnson Creek, ID.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to maintain clearance from the rising terrain. Factors include his poor decision to depart without assurance that he could clear the surrounding terrain under the ambient conditions, his failure to adhere to the accepted procedure of leaning the fuel mixture for high-altitude takeoff, high density…
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