4 fatal · Cessna 172 · 2005-12-22 · Gilroy, CA, USA
Event
NTSB number
LAX06LA064
Event ID
20051227X02016
Type
Accident
Date
2005-12-22
Location
Gilroy, CA, USA
Coordinates
37.067779, -121.51889
Injuries
Highest injury
FATL
Fatal
4
Serious
0
Minor
0
Uninjured
0
Total aboard
4
Aircraft
Make
Cessna
Model
172
Registration
N7383A
FAR Part
091
Engines
1
Damage
DEST
Conditions
Light
NDRK
Weather
IMC
Probable cause
The non-instrument rated pilot's poor judgment to fly in dark night instrument conditions, which resulted in his spatial disorientation and loss of aircraft control while maneuvering. Contributing factors were the dark night light condition and the low ceiling.