Piper PA 18-150 N8998Y accident near Salcha, Alaska

Probable cause

The pilot's decision to continue visual flight into instrument meteorological conditions, which resulted in an in-flight collision with terrain.

NTSB analysis

The student pilot stated that he was conducting a solo cross-country flight when he entered instrument meteorological conditions (IMC) during the en route portion of the flight. In an attempt to exit IMC, the pilot continued straight ahead and began a descent. While descending, he saw trees through the fog and attempted to climb just prior to impacting the trees. Following the impact, a post-crash fire ensued.

The accident pilot's flight instructor stated that he departed about 10 minutes ahead of the accident pilot in the same direction, but due to low cloud ceilings had returned to his departure airport. When he landed and turned on his cell phone, he received a voicemail from the accident pilot stating that he had crashed, there was a post-crash fire, and he needed help.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ANC16LA060 for the full record.