Accident Details
An aircraft operating in cruise flight along an airway impacted terrain at an elevation of 10,600 feet. The minimum en route altitude for that airway segment was 13,300 feet. The collision occurred on a snow-covered mountain ridge that crests at 11,301 feet. The aircraft struck trees and terrain in a level flight attitude, and the measured ground scar heading was approximately 272 degrees, consistent with radar data showing the airplane's ground track.
Flight Conditions
The accident took place under dark night conditions. The pilot had just activated a VFR flight plan. Supplemental oxygen was not available for the pilot or any passengers on board.
Cargo and Weight
The cargo included Cobalt 60, a radioactive material. The aircraft's estimated weight at the time of the accident was 5,718 pounds, exceeding the maximum gross weight of 5,400 pounds.
Radar and Impact
Recorded radar data indicated that the airplane's ground track matched the heading of the ground scar, which was approximately 272 degrees. The impact occurred in a level flight attitude, suggesting no unusual pitch or bank at the moment of collision.