Synopsis
A pilot returning from a cross-country flight was observed entering the traffic pattern at an estimated 450 feet above ground level (AGL) and very close to the runway. The airport's published traffic pattern altitude was 800 feet AGL. The airplane subsequently maneuvered in a manner described by witnesses as unusual before impacting the ground.
Witness Accounts
One witness reported that when the aircraft turned base, it "appeared to be a kind of wing-over maneuver." Another witness stated that the pilot "turned left to the base leg of an approach to runway 11, and [he] quickly increased the bank so that in less than five seconds I could see a full plan view of the airplane at an altitude of approximately 200 feet."
Investigation Findings
Post-accident investigation determined that the airplane's bank angle was approximately 30 degrees to the left and 30 degrees nose down at the time of ground impact. The airport elevation was 4,935 feet, and the density altitude was calculated to be 7,844 feet.
Examination of the airplane's altimeter revealed a Kollsman window setting of 29.96 inches of mercury. The closest recorded weather station, located 7 nautical miles away and 81 feet above the destination airport elevation, reported a barometric pressure of 30.21 inches of mercury. This discrepancy resulted in the pilot's altimeter reading approximately 250 feet higher than the airplane's actual altitude.
No further details regarding aircraft type, registration, occupants, or injuries were provided in the source material.