N51AR

On July 24, 1994, at 1650 mountain daylight time, a Piper PA-22- 150, N51AR, collided with trees near the Jarbidge River, on the Nevada side of the Nevada/Idaho border. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed during the personal flight, and no flight plan was filed. The airplane was substantially damaged. The private pilot received minor injuries, and the two passengers were not injured. The flight originated from Jackpot, Nevada, on July 24, 1994, at 1600.

According to a verbal report the pilot made to the Elko County Sheriff, after the pilot departed the casino in Jackpot, he flew over the Murphy Hot Springs (uncontrolled) Airstrip at a low altitude to inform residents of his arrival. After the overflight, the pilot was unable to gain altitude. While maneuvering in the area, the airplane encountered thermals and collided with trees.

In the pilot's completed "Aircraft Accident Report," NTSB Form 6120.1, he indicated that he flew over the destination grass airstrip to check for cattle and runway condition. He did not land. The pilot then flew more than 3 miles away to where Murphy Hot Springs was located at the bottom of a canyon.

The pilot further indicated that while near Murphy's, he realized the airplane would not clear the canyon walls even after full engine power was applied. The local wind was calm, but clear air turbulence was experienced.