Incident Overview
Two pilots informed friends of their intention to go sightseeing before departing. When they failed to return as planned, a search operation was initiated. The wreckage was located three days later.
Accident Sequence
The aircraft was flying up the western side of a mountain pass when it struck a tree and subsequently impacted deep snow at approximately the 11,200-foot level. Autopsies revealed that both pilots survived the initial impact.
Post-Impact Events
After the crash, one of the pilots attempted to seek help. His body was found one mile from the wreckage. The aircraft was not equipped with first aid or survival gear.
Investigation Findings
No evidence of preimpact mechanical failure or malfunction was discovered.