Incident Overview
During a preflight weather briefing, the pilot mentioned that on a previous flight, an air traffic controller had provided vectors to avoid weather. After departure, while in cruise flight, the aircraft was not equipped with onboard weather avoidance radar. The center controller informed the pilot of weather approximately 10 nautical miles ahead and noted that other aircraft had been navigating through it. The controller cleared the flight to deviate from its course as needed.
Sequence of Events
The flight continued without deviating or requesting assistance. Shortly afterward, the pilot encountered the weather and requested help from the controller to exit the conditions. The controller provided a heading to fly, but shortly thereafter, radar and radio contact were lost.
Examination Findings
The aircraft experienced an inflight breakup. Examination of fracture surfaces revealed evidence of overload failure. Investigators could not determine whether the autopilot system was engaged at the time. The engines were examined and showed no evidence of preimpact failure or malfunction.