Accident Overview
A certificated airline transport pilot and a passenger were conducting a VFR on-demand charter flight in a single-engine amphibious float-equipped airplane. The flight aimed to cross a glacier-covered mountain pass. The pilot had flown the same route several times earlier that day and planned to assess weather conditions for the crossing.
Sequence of Events
As the aircraft approached the pass, visibility began to decrease due to light rain drizzle and haze. The pilot initiated a turn away from the pass but then recognized a known glacier approximately 2 miles from his position. Shortly thereafter, the airplane entered a whiteout condition. The pilot reported lowering the wing flaps and entering a 40-degree bank to the right to execute a 180-degree turn away from the pass. Approximately 2 seconds later, the airplane collided with snow-covered terrain.
Passenger Account
The passenger reported that as the flight neared the pass, forward visibility dropped to zero in clouds. The airplane subsequently collided with rising terrain to the left of the pass area.
Investigation Findings
The accident sequence involved a whiteout condition, reduced visibility from light rain and haze, and a turning maneuver near known glacial terrain. No probable cause was stated in the source.