Casualties unknown

Airplane Collides with Trees on Mountain Ridge After VFR Not Recommended (N31566)

Jasper, GA, US

On April 6, 2001, a Piper PA-28-181 (registration N31566) operated by Simerly Farms Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Jasper, GA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot disregarded preflight weather briefing information, and continued visual flight into known instrument weather conditions and collided with trees. 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

An airplane failed to arrive at its destination after the pilot received a weather briefing advising against visual flight. The wreckage was found on a mountain ridge, having collided with trees. Witnesses reported low flying in clouds.

Incident Overview

An airplane failed to reach its intended destination after the pilot received a weather briefing in which visual flight was not recommended for the planned route. A search operation was initiated, and the downed aircraft was subsequently located. The airplane had collided with trees on a mountain ridge along the route of flight.

Witness Reports

Several witnesses reported seeing a low-flying airplane just before the time of the accident, maneuvering in and out of clouds. Witnesses also reported low visibility, fog, and overcast cloud conditions in the area.

Investigation

Investigators are examining the circumstances surrounding the accident, including the weather conditions and the pilot's decision to proceed despite the briefing. No further details have been released at this time.

All Piper PA-28 Cherokee accidents →

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 6 Apr 2001 Piper PA-28-181 accident near Jasper, GA?

An airplane failed to arrive at its destination after the pilot received a weather briefing advising against visual flight. The wreckage was found on a mountain ridge, having collided with trees. Witnesses reported low flying in clouds.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 6 Apr 2001 involved a Piper PA-28-181, registration N31566, operated by Simerly Farms Inc., at Jasper, GA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot disregarded preflight weather briefing information, and continued visual flight into known instrument weather conditions and collided with trees.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20010416X00748. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.