Aircraft Lost After Deviating from Cleared Heading in Instrument Conditions (N7233R)

Flight Progression and Loss of Contact Shortly after takeoff into instrument meteorological conditions, the pilot climbed to 6,000 ft and received clearance to continue to 7,000 ft while turning right to 180 degrees. Radar data indicated the aircraft instead turned left to 220 degrees. Radar contact was lost shortly thereafter at 6,900 ft. ## Witness Account and Wreckage Location A witness reported seeing the aircraft emerge from the cloud base in a high-speed dive. The wreckage was located 5 miles north of the departure airport. ## Pilot Background and Training History The pilot had previously attempted a flight review on February 7, during which the certified flight instructor did not consider the pilot competent. The pilot rescheduled the review for February 14. After the February 14 flight, the instructor informed the pilot that instrument flying was poor and rescheduled the review for March 28. The pilot was cautioned not to fly in instrument meteorological conditions until the flight review was completed. The instructor stated that he had observed a deterioration of the pilot's skills over the years.