What happened
Approximately three minutes after departing, the aircraft emerged from an overcast layer situated between 400 and 600 feet above ground level. Witnesses observed the plane in a steep descent attitude, pitched approximately 75 degrees nose down with its right wing lowered. Before reaching the terrain, the airframe collided with a four-strand high-voltage power line.
The investigation
Examination of the pilot's qualifications revealed that he had obtained his instrument rating in January of that year. However, no flight logs or records indicated that he had ever flown actual or simulated instrument conditions in this specific aircraft model, a Piper PA-24. Additionally, weight and balance calculations confirmed that the aircraft was loaded beyond its maximum gross weight limit at the time of the accident.
Findings
The pilot's recent medical history presented significant concerns regarding his fitness for flight. He had been treated on March 6, 1984, for symptoms including nausea, vomiting, and dizziness, receiving three medications during that visit. Follow-up calls to the university health center on March 8 and March 10 indicated persistent dizziness, resulting in an additional prescription. Although a subsequent drug screen showed no detectable traces of medication, the physiological impact of his condition and potential residual effects remained a critical factor.