NTSB Factual Report

On July 17, 2005, about 1425 Pacific daylight time, a Cessna 172N, N120ER, registered to and operated by Northern Air Inc., as a 14 CFR Part 91 personal flight, collided with mountainous terrain located approximately nine nautical miles northwest of Bonners Ferry, Idaho. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time and no flight plan was filed. The aircraft was substantially damaged and the certified private pilot received minor injuries. The passenger was seriously injured. The flight departed from Bonners Ferry about two hours prior to the accident.

During a telephone interview, the pilot reported that he flew up a canyon and was unable to maintain clearance from the rising terrain. The pilot reported no mechanical failure or malfunction with the aircraft at the time of the accident.

NTSB Probable Cause

The pilot's failure to maintain terrain clearance while maneuvering. Mountainous terrain was a factor.