C172 pilot in cruise deviating for weather in the vicinity of a MOA reported a NMAC with a B52.

Date: 2024-06 · Aircraft: Skyhawk 172/Cutlass 172 · Phase: cruise

Anomalies: conflict-nmac|inflight-event-encounter-weather-turbulence

Synopsis

C172 pilot in cruise deviating for weather in the vicinity of a MOA reported a NMAC with a B52.

Narrative

Flight Plan: From ZZZ to ZZZ1 over two days. The first leg was from ZZZ to ZZZ2 for an overnight stay. Due to the approach of Tropical Storm; I decided to stay below 3500 ft MSL to remain clear of clouds. The extensive cloud cover led to a circuitous route as I navigated around numerous cells shown on the ADS-B/FIS-B via the Garmin GTN650. My course brought me close to the boundary of a MOA; which ranges from 100 ft AGL to 6999 ft MSL. As a rule; I avoid MOAs unless using flight following; which I was not using due to the weather conditions.As I passed within about 2 miles of the southeast corner of the MOA; the ADS-B alarmed; indicating an aircraft was within 1-nm of my plane. I immediately looked out the left window and saw a large aircraft (a B-52 bomber) emerging from the clouds slightly below and apparently on a collision course. The B-52 was taking evasive action by turning towards the southwest. I immediately turned my plane to the southeast and dove to lose altitude. The B-52 was close enough for me to hear the roar of its engines. I then continued my trip to ZZZ2; but the event left me rather shaken. The lesson learned is to continue avoiding MOAs unless cleared by Flight Following and to remain extremely vigilant near MOA boundaries. Contributing factors include the weather conditions and the numerous clouds near my flight altitude. Additionally; I was not monitoring the ADS-B as closely as I should have; partly because the Garmin GTN650 limited the number of open windows; unlike the Garmin G3X Touch which my previous aircraft was equipped with.

Source: NASA Aviation Safety Reporting System (public domain). Reports are voluntary submissions and are not verified by NASA.