Details
A single-engine airplane was conducting a moose counting survey. The pilot communicated with another survey pilot working nearby, reporting that his assigned area had some fog at higher elevations but was workable. After completing the standard search, the pilot advised he was commencing the intensive search pattern. No further contact was made with the flight.
Flight Profile
During the intensive search, which takes 20 to 30 minutes to complete, the aircraft flies a series of slightly overlapping circles or ovals at 200 to 300 feet above ground level (AGL), at speeds of 60 to 70 miles per hour, with flaps set to one notch (15 degrees).
Accident Circumstances
The airplane struck snow-covered tundra in a nose-first attitude at an angle of approximately 40 degrees. At the time of the accident, the aircraft was estimated to be about 300 pounds above its maximum certificated gross weight.