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PIPER PA31 350 accident at Point Thomson, AK, 17 May 2023
On May 17, 2023, a PIPER PA31 350 operated by 70 North was involved in an aviation accident near Point Thomson, AK. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot’s inadvertent descent below the published minimum descent altitude, while operating in flat light conditions, which resulted in controlled flight into terrain. This summary draws on records from NTSB; 13 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
Probable cause
The pilot’s inadvertent descent below the published minimum descent altitude, while operating in flat light conditions, which resulted in controlled flight into terrain.
— NTSB Determination
Contributing factors
PilotContributed to outcomeDescent/approach/glide path — Not attained/maintained
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 17 May 2023 PIPER PA31 350 accident near Point Thomson, AK?
The pilot’s inadvertent descent below the published minimum descent altitude, while operating in flat light conditions, which resulted in controlled flight into terrain.
Were there any fatalities in the 17 May 2023 PIPER PA31 350 accident?
No fatalities were recorded in this accident.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 17 May 2023 involved a PIPER PA31 350, operated by 70 North, at Point Thomson, AK.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot’s inadvertent descent below the published minimum descent altitude, while operating in flat light conditions, which resulted in controlled flight into terrain.
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