Accident Sequence
The aircraft was cleared for an NDB-A approach and received approval to switch to the local advisory frequency. After that, no further radio communication was established with the aircraft. Radar data indicated that the aircraft crossed over the initial approach fix (IAF) and began a right outbound turn toward the procedure turn area. Radar contact was lost approximately 3 miles west of the IAF. When the aircraft did not arrive at its destination, a search was initiated. The wreckage was located the following day where it had crashed in mountainous terrain at an elevation of about 1100 feet.
Impact and Wreckage
Impact occurred in a steep nose-down, left wing-down attitude. Investigators found no preimpact part failure or malfunction of the aircraft or its engine.
Weather Conditions
Personnel at the airport (elevation 35 feet) estimated weather conditions as about 1000 feet overcast, 5 miles visibility with light rain and fog. A helicopter pilot who was searching for the downed aircraft reported that the mountains and hills in the area were obscured by clouds. He was unable to reach the area of the crash site on the day of the accident due to rain and fog.