Background
The pilot of the aircraft did not receive a weather briefing before departure. He departed under visual flight rules (VFR) despite the presence of adverse weather conditions.
Flight Details
During the flight, the pilot operated along a VOR airway at an altitude that was 2000 feet below the published minimum en route altitude (MEA) for that route. Although the pilot held an instrument rating, his total actual instrument flight time was limited to 10 hours, and he had completed only 6 instrument approaches. He did not file an instrument flight rules (IFR) flight plan.
Weather Conditions
Weather along the route of flight was reported by witnesses and reporting facilities as characterized by low ceilings, restricted visibility, and rain.