Incident Overview
A non-instrument rated private pilot, who had received his certificate just two days before the accident, was operating a flight that received Stage III radar service. During the flight, the pilot advised air traffic control that the aircraft was in clouds and was turning around. Radar contact was lost moments later, and the aircraft subsequently crashed into a heavily wooded area.
Environmental Conditions
Witnesses in the vicinity described the night as very dark, with clouds and fog extending from the treetops to approximately 2,000 feet above ground level (AGL). The weather data listed in the report was obtained from an observation taken at Tallahassee, Florida, located about 8 miles northwest of the accident site.
Aircraft and Pilot Information
The pilot held a private pilot certificate but was not instrument rated. No further details about the aircraft type, registration, or engine count were provided in the source.
Investigation
The accident investigation focused on the circumstances surrounding the loss of radar contact and the subsequent crash. No probable cause was stated in the source materials.