Probable cause
The pilot’s selection of a flightpath toward rising terrain that exceeded the climb capability of the airplane.
NTSB analysis
While maneuvering in mountainous terrain at high density altitude conditions, the pilot impacted a ridge area. An evaluation of the terrain near the accident site and the performance capabilities of the airplane indicated that the pilot selected a route of flight toward rising terrain that the airplane could not climb sufficiently quickly to avoid. Examination of the airframe, engine, and propeller did not reveal any preimpact failures or malfunctions that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN12FA594 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Aug 31, 2012
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Rye, Colorado
- Highest injury
- Fatal
- Fatal injuries
- 2
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Piper PA-12
- N-number
- N3031M
- Category
- Airplane
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Aerial observation
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.