Accident Overview
A company VFR flight plan was filed, and the aircraft took off at approximately 0930 Mountain Daylight Time on a return flight to Farmington, New Mexico. After departing Blanding, the aircraft encountered low clouds, according to a surviving passenger.
Flight Sequence
The passenger reported that the pilot flew in the clouds for a period of time until finding an open spot, then descended below the clouds. The pilot continued the flight, maneuvering "back and forth, up and down...canyons." The passenger stated the pilot "started back up in the fog & I thought he knew where he was going." A few minutes after re-entering the fog, the aircraft crashed.
Search and Recovery
The aircraft was reported overdue, initiating a search. It was found at approximately 1517, having crashed and burned on Sleeping Ute Mountain at the 7,800-foot level.
Wreckage Examination
Examination of the wreckage revealed that the aircraft impacted rising terrain in a nose-high attitude. No preimpact mechanical failure or malfunction was reported.
Pilot Information
The pilot was instrument rated but was certified for visual flight rules (VFR) only for operations under Part 135 of the Federal Aviation Regulations.