What happened
The accident occurred during the initial climb phase of an instrument flight rules (IFR) departure. The pilot-in-command, who occupied the right seat, was not rated for instrument flying. Instead, the left seat pilot, who held a non-instrument rating, assumed control of the takeoff and initial navigation.
During the critical early phase of flight, the pilot-in-command diverted his attention from external visual references to internal cockpit tasks. He was observed examining a navigation chart and attempting to program a Very High Frequency Omnidirectional Range (VOR) station into the Long Range Navigation (LORAN) system. This distraction prevented him from monitoring the aircraft's attitude and trajectory.
As a result of this lack of situational awareness, the airplane failed to maintain adequate climb performance or directional control. The aircraft settled downward and impacted a line of trees shortly after departure. The pilot-in-command was an employee of the left seat pilot at the time of the incident.
The investigation
Post-accident analysis included toxicological testing of the left seat pilot. Laboratory results detected the presence of diphenhydramine and phenylpropanolamine in his urine. Both substances are classified as antihistamines, which are known to cause sedation and impaired cognitive function.
Findings
The primary factors contributing to this accident were the distraction of the pilot-in-command during a critical phase of flight and the impairment caused by medication. The decision to allow a non-instrument rated pilot to conduct an IFR departure without adequate instrument scanning further exacerbated the risk.