Summary
On April 9, 1986, a non-instrument rated pilot departed on a visual flight rules (VFR) flight into an area of forecast adverse weather. Radar contact with the aircraft was lost at 9,700 feet MSL near the accident site at 0930 MST. The wreckage was located the following day at 1155 MST, scattered over an area 2,000 feet long. The cabin and cockpit were destroyed by a post-impact fire. The pilot and two passengers were fatally injured.
Accident Details
The pilot, who lacked an instrument rating, initiated a VFR flight despite forecast adverse weather conditions. The flight was being tracked by radar until the signal was lost at an altitude of 9,700 feet MSL in the vicinity of the eventual accident site. The loss of radar contact occurred at 0930 MST on April 9, 1986. The wreckage was discovered at 1155 MST on April 10, 1986. The debris field extended over a length of 2,000 feet, indicating a high-energy impact. A post-impact fire ensued, destroying the cabin and cockpit areas.
Investigation
The investigation into the accident focused on the circumstances surrounding the flight. The pilot's decision to operate under VFR in adverse weather conditions, despite lacking an instrument rating, was documented. No other contributing factors or causal analysis were provided in the source material. The probable cause of the accident was not stated.