Background
On an unspecified date, a flight departed the Alamogordo White Sands Regional Airport after a fuel stop. The pilot had earlier indicated to air traffic control (ATC) that he was unfamiliar with the area.
Departure and Radar Status
Prior to departure at 2321, the pilot was informed that departure radar was out of service. The flight subsequently departed using a Visual Flight Rules (VFR) departure. At 2324, the pilot was advised that radar had returned to service and confirmed that the aircraft was climbing through an altitude of 5,300 feet.
Communication and Terrain Clearance
Following the radar update, a discussion ensued between the pilot and the controller concerning terrain clearance. At 2324, the pilot indicated he was turning left because he was not sure if a hill was in his path.
Accident
Shortly thereafter, the airplane impacted a mountain at an elevation of 6,100 feet above mean sea level (MSL), which was 1,500 feet below the summit. The minimum vectoring altitude in the area was 11,000 feet MSL.
Investigation
The circumstances surrounding the accident are detailed in the official investigation report.