Departure and Weather Conditions
The pilot had filed an instrument flight plan for the flight but did not call for his clearance prior to departure. The airport does not have remote receivers or FAA ATC facilities. At the time of departure, visibility was reported as less than 1/4 mile.
Takeoff and Noise
Witnesses heard the airplane depart from Runway 18. After departure, the aircraft turned right. Subsequently, the witnesses heard 'a big crackling noise.' They noted that the engine was not making any unusual sounds before the noise.
Terrain and Departure Procedure
The terrain west of the airport rises 300 to 400 feet within 1,500 feet of the runway centerline. The published instrument departure procedure for Runway 18 directs pilots to climb on a heading of 170 degrees until reaching 1,200 feet MSL, then to proceed on course.
Pilot Background
The pilot had completed his instrument training at the accident airport and had recently completed a recurrent instrument training program. According to his flight instructor, the pilot was instrument current and familiar with the departure procedures for the airport.