Flight Path
After departure, the airplane intercepted airway V-2 and appeared to climb normally until reaching 8,300 ft (assigned 9,000 ft) while tracking approximately 110 degrees magnetic. Radar analysis showed the airplane at 128 KIAS when it abruptly turned left 30 degrees and then appeared to recover. Voice communication during this event was normal with no change in the pilot's level of anxiety. Immediately thereafter, the heading changed over 90 degrees to the left (northbound), and a maximum rate of descent of 6,750 ft/min developed before the heading stabilized and the descent slowed.
Impact and Wreckage
The airplane's ground impact site was approximately 1 nautical mile southwest of the last radar target. Wreckage distribution was roughly parallel to airway V-2. The airplane impacted the mountainside in a steep nose-low, left wing down attitude.
Engine and Propeller Examination
The engines, propellers, and governors were disassembled and inspected with no evidence of mechanical malfunction. Examination of the left propeller indicated low power on impact.
Environmental Conditions
There was no evidence of significant icing or turbulence during the flight.