On May 25, 2003, a Cessna 180H (registration N767) was involved in an aviation accident near Yellow Pine, ID. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain clearance while maneuvering. Trees, a box canyon and rising terrain were factors. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
GPS tracking showed an aircraft entered a box canyon and made a steep left turn with decreasing altitude and increasing airspeed before colliding with tall trees and coming to rest inverted. No mechanical failure was found.
Accident Details
An aircraft on a flight from a mountain airstrip entered and followed a valley that terminated in a box canyon with rising terrain, according to GPS tracking data. The last tracking point indicated the aircraft executed a steep left turn accompanied by a decrease in altitude and an increase in airspeed. On-site documentation revealed that the aircraft subsequently collided with several tall trees before coming to rest in an inverted position.
Investigation Findings
A post-accident inspection of the airframe and engine did not uncover evidence of a mechanical failure or malfunction. The investigation focused on the flight path and environmental conditions leading to the collision.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 25 May 2003 Cessna 180H accident near Yellow Pine, ID?
GPS tracking showed an aircraft entered a box canyon and made a steep left turn with decreasing altitude and increasing airspeed before colliding with tall trees and coming to rest inverted. No mechanical failure was found.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 25 May 2003 involved a Cessna 180H, registration N767, at Yellow Pine, ID.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to maintain clearance while maneuvering. Trees, a box canyon and rising terrain were factors.
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