Incident Overview
A pilot rented an airplane from a flying club and took off without any issues. No en route communications or services were requested or provided to the pilot, and he departed the area. Two days later, the missing airplane was located. It had descended into estimated 40-degree up-sloping, rocky, mountainous terrain. The airplane fragmented upon impact, and the crash was not survivable.
Background
Prior to the flight, the pilot indicated to a friend that he planned to end his life. He was reportedly emotionally upset and depressed because of a recently deteriorated close personal relationship and employment difficulties. The pilot was reported to have recently obtained a new life insurance policy. A handwritten note was found in plain view at the pilot's residence. In part, the note stated, "Good bye, Good bye..."
Investigation Details
The investigation focused on the circumstances surrounding the flight. The pilot's emotional state and personal difficulties were noted. The airplane was found in a remote mountainous area, having sustained severe fragmentation upon impact. No further details were provided about the aircraft type, registration, or specific location.