Incident Summary
During a daytime cross-country flight, a commercial pilot planned to fly beneath the base of a Terminal Control Area (TCA). After clearing the TCA's lateral boundary, the pilot encountered turbulence and initiated a climb from the cruise altitude of 4,700 feet mean sea level (MSL) to 7,500 feet MSL. While climbing through 5,300 feet MSL, the airplane encountered a strong downdraft, resulting in a loss of altitude. The airplane subsequently collided with a hill at an elevation of 4,800 feet MSL.
Flight Details
The flight was conducted under visual flight rules during daylight hours. The pilot's initial cruise altitude was 4,700 feet MSL, chosen to remain below the TCA base. After passing the lateral boundary of the TCA, the pilot experienced turbulence and began a climb to a higher altitude. The descent due to the downdraft was sudden, and the airplane struck the hill before the pilot could recover.
Conclusion
The accident occurred when the airplane was unable to maintain altitude after encountering a strong downdraft, resulting in terrain impact. The investigation did not specify additional details regarding aircraft type, registration, or occupant status.