The department will partner with ODOT on the project. At the January 31 st meeting, Keith Crimins of Hillsboro FSDO provided the chapter with an interesting array of information on aviation accidents in the northwest region. He discussed the risks of flying at night in IMC conditions. He stated that the bulk of the fatal aviation accidents occurred during those flights. He also mentioned the reluctance of pilots to admit that they are experiencing a problem and asking for help is a factor.
Pilots know they are in trouble, but think they can handle it.
Not being able to see due to weather or darkness can cause those Uncontrolled flight into terrain events as the FAA report them. He discussed several icing incidents that led to fatalities stating that ice is always a problem even if the pilot doesn t realize it. Not only does it weight a lot, it interrupts the smooth flow of air over the wings causing poor handling and loss of lift. It can plug up the pitot tube and cause misleading readings on instruments. When we need service, it is okay to ask for it.