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NTSB Report
August 9, 2021 · Cessna 172 G · N5735R
Reno, NV
Overview
Report Status
Probable Cause
Event Type
Accident
Date
August 9, 2021
Injury Outcomes
No injuries (3 uninjured)
Location
Reno, NV
Aircraft
Cessna 172 G (1965)
Tail Number
N5735R
Operator
Davis Richard B
Injuries
None
Aircraft Damage
Substantial
NTSB Number
WPR21LA308
The pilot reported that, while climbing toward mountainous terrain and approaching a ridgeline, the airplane encountered a downdraft. The airplane was unable to outclimb the terrain, and too low to turn around, so the pilot elected to perform a forced landing to desert terrain. The airplane struck the ground, nosed over, and came to rest inverted substantially damaging the wings and fuselage. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. The pilot stated that he could have avoided the accident if he approached the terrain at a higher altitude.
NTSB Probable Cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain clearance from mountainous terrain prior to encountering a downdraft, which resulted in a forced landing and collision with terrain.
Full Narrative
The pilot reported that, while climbing toward mountainous terrain and approaching a ridgeline, the airplane encountered a downdraft. The airplane was unable to outclimb the terrain, and too low to turn around, so the pilot elected to perform a forced landing to desert terrain. The airplane struck the ground, nosed over, and came to rest inverted substantially damaging the wings and fuselage. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. The pilot stated that he could have avoided the accident if he approached the terrain at a higher altitude.
Flight
Event TypeAccident
Event Time10:30 PDT
Nearest Airport0nm
Flight Plan FiledNone
Aircraft FireNo
Aircraft ExplosionNo
Aircraft
AircraftCessna 172 G
Tail NumberN5735R
Aircraft CategoryAir
DamageSubstantial
OperatorDavis Richard B
Operating RulePart 91
Engines1
Engine TypeReciprocating
Engine DetailsContinental · O-300 · Reciprocating · 150
Seats4
People & Injuries
Injury SummaryNo injuries (3 uninjured)
Fatal0
Serious0
Minor0
Uninjured3
Total3
Crew 1Age 78 · Third Class · None
Conditions
ConditionsVMC
LightDaylight
WindCalm
Visibility3 sm
CeilingOvercast 3200 ft
Temperature / Dew Point34 F
Altimeter30.08 inHg
Observation Time12:00
Weather SourceWFAC