# NTSB Accident DEN05FA003
> **Cessna A185E** · 2004-10-03 · Luna, NM, USA · FATL
## Event
- **NTSB number:** DEN05FA003
- **Event ID:** 20041008X01600
- **Type:** Accident
- **Date:** 2004-10-03
- **Location:** Luna, NM, USA
- **Coordinates:** 33.913333, -109.023056
## Injuries
- **Highest injury:** FATL
- **Fatal:** 1
- **Serious:** 0
- **Minor:** 0
- **Uninjured:** 0
- **Total aboard:** 1
## Aircraft
- **Make:** Cessna
- **Model:** A185E
- **Registration:** N5964
- **FAR Part:** 091
- **Engines:** 1
- **Damage:** DEST
## Conditions
- **Light:** DAYL
- **Weather:** VMC
## Probable cause

the pilot's improper use of the mixture control, his failure to maintain clearance from the trees, and his improper preflight planning resulting in his taking off into a canyon and subsequently impacting the trees and terrain.  Factors contributing to the accident were the trees, and the high density altitude.

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*Source: [NTSB CAROL](https://data.ntsb.gov/carol-main-public/basic-search?source=ntsb&type=event&ntsb_number=DEN05FA003) · AI Analytics · CC0 1.0*