N9292U

On December 20, 2005, about 1938, a Cessna150M, N9292U, piloted by a non-instrument rated private pilot, sustained substantial damage on impact with terrain and subsequent nose over during an off field landing after takeoff when the flight encountered fog near Algona, Iowa. The personal flight was operating under 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91. Night visual to instrument meteorological conditions prevailed at the time of the accident. No flight plan was on file. The pilot and passenger reported minor injuries. The local flight was originating from the Algona Municipal Airport (AXA), near Algona, Iowa.

The pilot's accident report stated:

Returned from [Mason City Municipal Airport, Mason City, Iowa, to]

AXA. (5:00pm [to] 7:30pm) [Weather] was clear dark night. (clear

below 12000') Terrain flat. Landed AXA. On ground [approximately]

8 min[utes]. [Approximately] 7:38pm took off AXA for a local flight.

Sky looked clear. Rotated [and] climb to about 70'. Then engulfed in

fog. ... Turned right to make open field to north of AXA. Could not see

anything at this time. Cut power, leveled wings, [and] tried to just hold

that attitude to reduce impact. Hit slightly nose down [attitude].

Skidded, then flipped over.

The pilot checked the AXA Automated Weather Observing System (AWOS). He stated that AWOS indicated clear weather before the flight.

At 1915, the recorded weather at AXA was: Wind 310 degrees at 3 knots; visibility 7 statute miles; sky condition clear; temperature -15 degrees C; Dew point -18 degrees C; altimeter 30.22 inches of mercury.

At 1935, the recorded weather at AXA was: Wind 310 degrees at 3 knots; visibility 1/4 statute mile; present weather light snow; sky condition overcast 100 feet, temperature -14 degrees C; dew point -18 degrees C; altimeter 30.22 inches of mercury.