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Controlled Flight Into Terrain (CFIT)

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CFIT

An accident in which an airworthy aircraft under the control of the pilot is flown unintentionally into terrain, water or an obstacle, with the crew generally unaware of the impending collision. CFIT is strongly associated with night, instrument conditions, and descent below a safe altitude.

Source FAA Aeronautical Information Manual · checked 2026-08-25

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