Accident Sequence
The aircraft was one of two conducting for-hire sightseeing flights from the airport. After turning onto the crosswind leg, both aircraft encountered downdrafts. The accident aircraft turned left while the trailing aircraft turned right. The accident aircraft recovered close to the ground, collided with a telephone pole, and came to rest inverted.
Aircraft Examination
Postaccident examination established control continuity. No mechanical anomalies were noted. The pilot reported no mechanical anomalies during the flight, stating the aircraft was at full power but not gaining altitude. This was the sixth flight of the day, with no discrepancies recorded on previous flights.
Weather Conditions
At the time of the accident, weather was deteriorating. A witness reported rain showers approximately 5 miles southeast of the airport. Meteorological data indicated the presence of instability and convective activity conducive to up and downdrafts near the accident site.
Damage
The aircraft was destroyed by a postimpact fire.