Probable cause
The pilot's loss of control in flight.
NTSB analysis
About 2 hours after departure, radar data tracked the airplane at 7,000 feet before the airplane then initiated a right, descending turn before disappearing from radar. Witnesses reported seeing the airplane flying low, descending, making several turns, before impacting terrain. Impact signatures were consistent with a steep, nose-low attitude. An examination of the airframe and engine did not reveal any preimpact anomalies. The reason for the pilot's loss of control could not be determined.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN12FA072 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Nov 17, 2011
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Perryville, Arkansas
- Highest injury
- Fatal
- Fatal injuries
- 4
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Piper PA-28-180
- N-number
- N7746W
- Category
- Airplane
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Personal
From the NTSB aviation accident database: N-registered aircraft, events since 2008, data through Oct 28, 2026. The file is published monthly, so the latest weeks are incomplete and recent records can change. The official source is the NTSB aviation investigation search. CheckAero is independent and not affiliated with the NTSB.