Summary
A non-instrument rated pilot was advised that VFR flight was not recommended prior to departing on a flight from Galveston to Tyler, Texas. The aircraft subsequently crashed along the route near Ratcliff, Texas. Investigation revealed an in-flight breakup, with both horizontal stabilators and the outboard section of the right wing failing before impact.
Details
The pilot, who was not instrument rated, received a preflight advisory that visual flight rules (VFR) flight was not recommended. Despite this, the flight proceeded. The accident occurred near Ratcliff, approximately 28 miles west-northwest of Lufkin, Texas.
Witness Accounts
Witnesses reported that before the crash, the aircraft was maneuvering in the area. They noted an interruption in the engine sound, followed by the engine revving to a high power setting as the aircraft entered a dive and subsequently crashed.
Examination
Examination of the wreckage determined that an in-flight breakup had occurred. Both horizontal stabilators and the outboard section of the right wing had failed during flight. These components were found approximately 400 feet short of the main wreckage impact point.
Weather
Weather reported at Lufkin, about 28 miles east-southeast of the accident site, included a 1,200-foot broken cloud ceiling, 4 miles visibility with haze, fog, and drizzle. One witness estimated the airplane was flying at about 1,000 feet above ground level when first observed. The investigation did not verify whether the aircraft was maneuvering above or below the cloud base before the breakup.