Accident Overview
A certificated private pilot and a passenger were engaged in sheep scouting operations in a remote mountainous area. The aircraft was flying at an altitude of 5,500 feet mean sea level when it encountered a downdraft. The downdraft resulted in a loss of both altitude and airspeed.
Pilot Actions
In response to the deteriorating situation, the pilot applied full power and initiated a turn. Despite these corrective measures, the airplane continued to descend and could not arrest its rate of descent.
Impact and Post-Impact Sequence
The descent persisted until the airplane made contact with the ground. During the initial impact, the left wingtip struck the terrain. The aircraft then cartwheeled downslope, coming to a final rest at an elevation of approximately 4,800 feet.
Aircraft Performance
Performance charts for the specific airplane model indicated that, under the conditions, it should have been capable of a climb rate of 350 feet per minute. The reason for the discrepancy between actual performance and charted capability is not stated.
Weather Conditions
The pilot reported that scattered rain showers were present in the area at the time of the accident. No further weather details were provided.