Introduction
An instrument-rated commercial pilot was hired to fly passengers to Atkinson, Nebraska, wait while they attended a high school football game, and then transport them to Lincoln, Nebraska. The flight ended shortly after departure when the airplane collided with ground structures.
Flight Details
Witnesses reported that the weather was clear with good visibility earlier in the evening. However, as the football game concluded, fog began to move into the area. The pilot had received three weather briefings prior to the flight and was advised of flight precautions regarding low ceilings and visibility.
Accident Sequence
The airplane departed from Atkinson without an IFR clearance. After liftoff, it encountered dense fog. One witness stated that the airplane did not appear to climb after taking off. The aircraft then struck a truck, a stock trailer, and a hog confinement barn located approximately 3/8 mile west of the departure end of the runway.
Postaccident Findings
A postaccident examination of the airplane revealed no evidence of any preimpact mechanical malfunction. The investigation did not identify a specific cause for the accident.