Incident Overview
Witnesses reported observing an airplane flying at low altitude and low airspeed near Monarch Pass. One witness noted that the aircraft's wings were "wobbling." The airplane subsequently banked left, descended, and struck a power pole before colliding with an abandoned mine building. Following the impact, the airplane caught fire and was consumed by flames.
Witness and Family Accounts
Family members of the pilot described him as an experienced mountain pilot who had previously crossed Monarch Pass multiple times, typically maintaining at least 2,000 feet of clearance above the highest obstacle. They stated that two passengers were visiting the United States for the first time, and they believed the pilot was flying at a low altitude to provide them with a better view of the terrain.
Accident Details
The sequence of events began with the airplane at a low altitude and airspeed. After the wings were observed wobbling, the aircraft initiated a left bank and lost altitude, leading to the collision with the power pole and the subsequent impact with the mine building. The resulting fire destroyed the aircraft.
The exact circumstances leading to the loss of altitude and control have not been determined. The investigation may consider factors such as pilot experience, terrain familiarity, and environmental conditions, but no official conclusions have been released.