Incident Overview
The private pilot was transporting passengers incidental to the operation of his lodge. According to the husband of one of the fatally injured passengers, the pilot was planning to land on the highway, just as he had done previously. Witnesses reported that it was common for pilots to use that portion of the highway for takeoffs and landings.
Sequence of Events
A witness observed the airplane paralleling the highway and then making a right turn towards the road and a hill. The airplane then 'wobbled' slightly, and dove toward the road with the right wing low. The airplane impacted approximately 20 yards in front of a tractor trailer on the highway. Upon impact, the airplane burst into flames and slid into the ditch alongside the highway.
Injuries
The passengers involved in the accident sustained fatal injuries.