Departure and Clearance
A flight departed under instrument flight rules (IFR) with clearance to climb to visual flight rules (VFR) conditions on top. Cloud tops were reported at 2,500 feet.
Cockpit Seating and Qualifications
The occupant in the right front seat held an instrument rating and was presumed to be the pilot in command (PIC). The occupant in the left front seat was also a pilot but did not possess an instrument rating. The airplane was equipped with a single set of flight instruments positioned in front of the left seat.
Flight Path and Radar Data
According to recorded radar data, the airplane did not reach an altitude where VFR conditions were reported. At approximately 2,300 to 2,400 feet mean sea level (MSL), the airplane entered a descent, after which radar contact was lost.
Witness Observations
Witnesses heard and saw the airplane in a steep dive as it descended below the estimated 500-foot overcast.
Mechanical Examination
No preimpact mechanical failure or malfunction of the airplane was found.