Accident Overview
On July 11, 1989, an aircraft was found approximately 25 miles northwest of its departure airport in Arkansas. The pilot, who did not hold an instrument rating, had made several inquiries about weather conditions along his planned route from Arkansas to South Dakota. He was advised that visual flight rules (VFR) flight was not recommended but reported that the weather at the departure point was VFR and indicated he would circumnavigate the en route weather.
Accident Site
The accident site was located near a box canyon in mountainous terrain at an elevation of 2,100 feet. The impact occurred during a steep descent.
Weather Conditions
About 40 miles west at Fort Smith, Arkansas (elevation 469 feet), the 0621 CDT weather included 700 feet scattered clouds and a 4,000-foot overcast. Convective SIGMETs 23C and 25C had warned of thunderstorm activity along the proposed route.
Aircraft Examination
No preimpact part failure or malfunction was found during the examination of the aircraft.