What happened
An on-demand charter flight was originally scheduled to pick up both passengers and cargo. However, due to a landing gear problem, another aircraft carrying a mechanic was dispatched to the location. That second aircraft returned with the intended passengers, while the mechanic repaired the accident aircraft. Following the repairs, the aircraft departed at a later time carrying only the cargo.
The aircraft was not operating under a flight plan. According to reports from the other company aircraft, instrument meteorological conditions (IMC) were present between 7,000 feet MSL and 12,500 feet MSL. The aircraft crashed on the side of Mt. Torbert at an elevation of 10,570 feet.
The investigation
Investigators located the pilot-in-command in the right pilot seat with a non-aviation related book in his lap. The mechanic was found in the left pilot seat with a World Aeronautical Chart (CD-11) open on his lap. While the mechanic held a commercial pilot certificate, he did not possess an instrument rating.
Findings
- The investigation identified weaknesses in company operations.