Flight Sequence
The Civil Air Patrol Cessna 182 was conducting a briefed 1-hour instrument proficiency flight. After 30 minutes, the pilots canceled the instrument flight rules clearance and continued under visual flight rules. About 15 minutes later, the airplane was observed making a low approach to a private airport. Following the approach, the airplane initiated a climbing right turn, during which the bank increased. The airplane then descended into trees with no change in engine power.
Mechanical Investigation
No evidence of a pre-existing mechanical failure or malfunction was found.
Pilot Medical Information
The pilot-in-command held a second-class medical certificate. He had been treated for migraine headaches, but no record of migraines was found in his medical certificate application. Toxicology testing revealed morphine in his blood at a level much higher than would be expected from a normal dose of the narcotic medication.
The second pilot held a special issuance third-class medical certificate due to a history of myocardial infarction and treatment with angioplasty, as well as diet-controlled diabetes.