Accident Overview
A cross-country flight encountered instrument meteorological conditions (IMC). The pilot flew the airplane toward a mountain range and entered a valley where terrain was rising. According to the passenger, while still in IMC, the pilot sighted the terrain immediately before the accident and began a left turn. The airplane collided with terrain during that maneuver.
Flight Details
The airplane was on a cross-country flight when it encountered IMC. The passenger reported that the pilot continued flight toward a mountain range and then entered a valley with rising terrain. No mechanical failures or malfunctions were identified during the post-crash investigation.
Accident Sequence
While in IMC and just prior to the accident, the pilot saw the terrain and initiated a left turn. The airplane struck the terrain during the turning maneuver. The passenger was the source of this account.
Investigation Findings
Post-crash examination revealed no mechanical failures or malfunctions that could have contributed to the accident. The investigation did not specify a probable cause.