Accident Overview
During a climb, the pilot encountered spatial disorientation and subsequently lost control of the aircraft while attempting to reverse course in compliance with an air traffic control clearance. Instrument meteorological conditions (IMC) existed at the time. The aircraft accelerated above its maneuvering speed.
Wing Failure
When the pilot attempted to recover from the loss of control, the left wing fractured under positive air loads at mid-span, outboard of the extruded spar. The structural failure occurred during the recovery attempt.
Pilot Records and Toxicology
No logbook record was found indicating that the pilot had flown under instrument flight rules (IFR) conditions in at least six months prior to the accident. Toxicological examination found therapeutic levels of diazepam in the pilot's liver.