Incident Overview
An airplane collided with a mountain rising to 7,500 feet at the 6,600-foot level. The accident occurred in visual meteorological conditions (VFR). The pilot had filed a Defense Visual Flight Rules (DVFR) flight plan and indicated a planned cruising altitude between 6,500 and 7,000 feet.
Weather Conditions
Altocumulus standing lenticular clouds were observed in the area at the time of the accident. Local officials reported strong westerly winds and associated turbulence over the Guadalupe Mountains on the morning of the accident.
Pilot Background
According to available information, the pilot had flown this route on numerous occasions. However, the pilot was known to fly at low altitudes.
Flight Plan Details
The pilot filed a DVFR flight plan, which is typically used for flights operating under visual flight rules in airspace where Defense VFR is required. The planned cruising altitude of 6,500 to 7,000 feet was noted.
Terrain Information
The collision occurred with a 7,500-foot mountain at the 6,600-foot level. The specific mountain is part of the Guadalupe Mountains range.
Notes
No further details regarding the aircraft, operator, occupants, or injuries have been provided in the source document.