On October 30, 2004, a Cessna 172P (registration N53161) operated by Eagle Flight Center was involved in an aviation accident near Olympia, WA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain clearance from terrain while maneuvering in known adverse weather conditions. Clouds, rain, high wind, dark night, trees, mountainous terrain and the pilot's inadequate in-flight planning/decision were factors. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 3 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A private pilot attempting to divert to an airport during a night cross-country flight in known adverse weather conditions collided with terrain after descending below radar coverage in mountainous area.
Accident Overview
During a night cross-country flight conducted in known adverse weather conditions, a private pilot was attempting to divert to a nearby airport with assistance from air traffic control. The pilot reported encountering rough turbulence and heavy rain to the controller. Radar tracking showed the aircraft flying in an area of mountainous terrain when it descended below radar coverage.
Wreckage and Witness Reports
The wreckage was located on the side of a ridge line. Evidence indicated that the aircraft first collided with a dead tree snag before impacting rising terrain in a level attitude. Witnesses situated north of the accident site reported hearing an aircraft fly overhead their residence. They described heavy rain and high wind at the time of the event.
Post-Accident Inspection
A post-accident inspection of the wreckage and engine revealed no evidence of a mechanical failure or malfunction.