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Casualties unknown

Box Canyon Maneuver Leads to Terrain Impact During Elk Spotting Flight (N8945V)

Thompson, UT, US

On September 5, 2007, a Cessna 172M (registration N8945V) was involved in an aviation accident near Thompson, UT. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain terrain clearance while maneuvering in a box canyon. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

While spotting elk from the air, a pilot maneuvered to show elk to the passenger, entered a box canyon, and impacted terrain during an attempted left turn to exit.

Incident Overview

According to the pilot's account, he and a passenger were engaged in aerial elk spotting. After locating a group of elk, the pilot maneuvered the airplane to position the elk on the passenger's side (right side) of the aircraft. This change in course led the airplane into a box canyon.

Sequence of Events

As the airplane proceeded deeper into the canyon, the terrain began to rise. The pilot realized that the aircraft would not be able to climb over the ridge at the head of the canyon. He initiated a left turn in an attempt to exit the canyon. However, during this turn, the airplane struck the terrain and subsequently nosed over.

Outcome

The airplane came to rest on its nose after impacting the ground. No further information regarding injuries or aircraft condition was provided in the source.

Controlled flight into terrain

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 5 Sept 2007 Cessna 172M accident near Thompson, UT?

While spotting elk from the air, a pilot maneuvered to show elk to the passenger, entered a box canyon, and impacted terrain during an attempted left turn to exit.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 5 Sept 2007 involved a Cessna 172M, registration N8945V, at Thompson, UT.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain terrain clearance while maneuvering in a box canyon.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20070911X01378. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.