Accident Overview
An experienced pilot, logging 20,000 flight hours, was engaged by a film crew to identify picturesque filming locations. During the accident flight, the pilot, who was familiar with the area, intentionally flew at low altitude over mountainous terrain. While cruising, the pilot encountered variations in ambient lighting and hillside shadows. This caused him to misjudge a critical turn, inadvertently steering the aircraft into a box-like canyon from which there was no escape. The aircraft subsequently collided with upsloping terrain.
Pilot Experience and Mission
The pilot had accumulated 20,000 flight hours and was tasked with locating scenic areas for a film production. He was acquainted with the region, which likely influenced his decision to operate at low altitude in the mountainous environment.
Sequence of Events
As the flight progressed at low altitude, the pilot noticed changes in ambient light and shadows along the hillsides. Reacting to these cues, he failed to successfully negotiate a critical turn. Instead, he entered a box canyon, a dead-end formation described as offering no escape. The aircraft then struck the rising terrain.
Conclusion
The investigation notes that the pilot's intentional low-altitude flight in mountainous terrain, combined with shifting lighting conditions, contributed to the loss of control. The aircraft was destroyed upon impact.