Flight History
An airline transport pilot with extensive and recent experience in corporate jets received a 15-minute checkout in a single-engine light rental airplane. The aircraft had been 'topped off' with fuel prior to the checkout. The following morning, the pilot boarded two passengers and departed on a corporate flight.
Witness Observations
Ground witnesses observed the airplane flying between 800 and 2,000 feet above a lake and valley. They reported hearing the engine 'missing' and 'coughing.' The airplane continued to fly in a level attitude as it proceeded into an area of steeply rising terrain toward the destination airport.
Accident Sequence
The airplane impacted trees at an elevation of 5,700 feet mean sea level and subsequently burned. The wreckage path measured 280 feet in length and was oriented toward the airport. The accident site was surrounded by rising terrain on three sides. The density altitude at the site was computed to be approximately 6,700 feet.
Post-Impact Examination
The landing gear was found in the extended position; no determination was made whether the extension resulted from pilot initiation, automatic extension, or initial impact forces. No distress calls from the pilot were reported. Examination revealed no preimpact mechanical deficiency with the airplane or its engine.