Accident Details
A single reciprocating engine airplane impacted terrain while maneuvering. The aircraft flipped inverted after striking a dirt levee. The reason for the forced landing could not be determined.
Witness Observations
Witnesses reported that the aircraft flew overhead for approximately one hour and appeared to be taking aerial photographs of an oil rig in the area. They subsequently observed the aircraft flying extremely close to the ground, as if the pilot was looking for a place to land. The airplane then hit a dirt levee and flipped inverted. One witness thought the aircraft was experiencing engine problems.
Wreckage Examination
During the wreckage examination, no anomalies were discovered that would have contributed to the accident. The flaps were found in the 10-degree down position. The engine was successfully operated for 10 minutes during a test in which it was run up to 2,400 rpm.
Pilot Information
The pilot's injuries have precluded him from recalling or making a statement about the accident. The private (non-instrument) pilot had a total of 1,734 hours of flight time in the accident aircraft.