Flight Narrative
The pilot was initially flying parallel to a line of thunderstorms at an altitude of 18,000 feet. Radar data and weather data indicate that the pilot subsequently turned to pass through the wall of cells at a location where satellite infrared data showed a hole in the cloud deck.
Weather Conditions
Meteorological studies of the area near the accident site indicate that the storm cells were developing very quickly and were extremely turbulent at the time of the flight.
Aircraft and Pilot Information
The aircraft was a new turbocharged airplane equipped with oxygen and a storm scope (onboard weather detection system). No documentation was located that indicated the pilot had ever received training in high-altitude flying, in operating a turbocharged airplane, or in the use of the onboard weather detection system.
Wreckage Distribution
The left wing, vertical stabilizer, and all pieces of the stabilizer were recovered approximately 4,000 feet west of the fuselage and right wing, which were found together.