# NTSB Accident CHI01FA024
> **Piper PA28-140** · 2000-10-25 · SPARTA, MI, USA · FATL
## Event
- **NTSB number:** CHI01FA024
- **Event ID:** 20001212X22113
- **Type:** Accident
- **Date:** 2000-10-25
- **Location:** SPARTA, MI, USA
- **Coordinates:** 43.150306, -85.700904
## Injuries
- **Highest injury:** FATL
- **Fatal:** 1
- **Serious:** 1
- **Minor:** 0
- **Uninjured:** 0
- **Total aboard:** 2
## Aircraft
- **Make:** Piper
- **Model:** PA28-140
- **Registration:** N98094
- **FAR Part:** 091
- **Engines:** 1
- **Damage:** DEST
## Conditions
- **Light:** NDRK
- **Weather:** IMC
## Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain proper runway alignment on departure and his failure to maintain clearance from the trees.  The pilot's attempted flight into known adverse weather, his lack of instrument experience, the fog, and the trees were contributing factors.

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*Source: [NTSB CAROL](https://data.ntsb.gov/carol-main-public/basic-search?source=ntsb&type=event&ntsb_number=CHI01FA024) · AI Analytics · CC0 1.0*