Accident Overview
A recently certificated commercial pilot was attending a junior college flying team orientation session and practice safety and flight evaluation conference with two student passengers. After the event concluded, all aircraft departed in visual flight rules (VFR) conditions for the same destination. Several different routes were flown through mountainous terrain, with three canyon-type routes offering a more direct course. The preferred canyon route with the lowest terrain was the only one depicted on the sectional chart with a road.
Flight Path and Terrain
Following takeoff, the accident flight followed a road and entered a canyon immediately north of the preferred route. The canyon gradually narrowed and eventually ended with an abrupt rise in terrain, forming a box canyon. The wreckage was located approximately 2,000 feet below the top of the surrounding terrain.
Investigation Findings
No official probable cause has been stated in the investigation source. The accident occurred in VFR conditions, and the pilot had a recent commercial certificate. The flight deviated from the preferred canyon route, entering a canyon that did not match the charted preferred path.