Accident Overview
A float-equipped Cessna 172N, owned by the pilot and a pilot-rated passenger, departed to the south from a bay. After takeoff, the airplane climbed to a point just north of the south end of the bay and initiated a left turn to the east. While continuing the turn to establish its on-course heading and avoid rising terrain, the airplane stalled and descended steeply. It impacted a field approximately half a mile east of the takeoff path, killing both occupants.
Payload and Fuel
The payload consisted of the two occupants, about 100 pounds of luggage and supplies, and an undetermined quantity of fuel.
Medical Considerations
Based on the passenger's medical history and autopsy results, investigators could not rule out the possibility of a distraction due to his impairment or incapacitation shortly after takeoff.
Maintenance History
Approximately 33 months and 175 flight hours before the accident, the airplane's airspeed indicator was found to read 20 knots high at all speeds. A dedicated search of maintenance records did not reveal any evidence that this discrepancy was corrected.
Weather Conditions
The recorded winds at an airport 7 miles southwest of the accident site were from 240 degrees at 9 knots. Ambient conditions resulted in a density altitude of approximately 2,100 feet.