Incident Overview
A non-instrument rated pilot departed on a flight at night over mountainous terrain. The airplane failed to arrive at its destination, prompting a search. The wreckage was located the following day on Mt. Randolph, approximately 2,000 feet southeast of the peak and 500 feet below it. The airplane sustained an in-flight separation.
Weather and Communications
According to Flight Service records, the pilot obtained a telephone weather briefing forecasting scattered clouds at 5,000 feet and scattered to broken clouds at 10,000 feet through early morning. The last radio contact with the airplane occurred when the pilot reported encountering haze at 7,500 feet. A satellite infrared image indicated overcast clouds across New Hampshire near the time of the accident.
Wreckage Examination
Examination of the wreckage revealed that all fracture surfaces were consistent with overload.
Witness Observations
A witness described the airport as a 'black hole,' surrounded by mountainous terrain with few ground lights for reference.
Pilot Experience
In the last seven years, the pilot logged 0.4 hours of simulated instrument time and 4.7 hours of night flying time.
Reference to Illusions
According to the Instrument Flying Handbook, illusions in flight can be created by motion and certain visual scenes. Illusions may lead the pilot to maneuver the aircraft into a dangerous attitude.