What happened
The aircraft was engaged in an aerial survey operation when it collided with rising terrain during a low-altitude maneuver. The pilot, seated in the right front position and actively flying the aircraft, executed a steep right turn to maintain visual contact with a herd of bighorn sheep. During this maneuver, the aircraft descended into the upward-sloping ground, resulting in a crash.
The investigation
Following the accident, investigators conducted a post-accident examination of the wreckage and remaining aircraft systems. The inspection focused on identifying any potential mechanical issues that might have contributed to the loss of control or altitude. No evidence of pre-impact failure of the aircraft equipment was found during this process.
Findings
The primary factor in this accident was the pilot's decision to perform a steep turn at low altitude while tracking wildlife. The combination of the tight maneuver and the rising terrain left insufficient clearance, leading to controlled flight into terrain. Mechanical integrity of the aircraft was confirmed prior to impact.