Summary
The aircraft, operated by a pilot and a pilot-certificated passenger, was on a return cross-country flight from Washington, D.C., to Lancaster, California. The flight had departed Missouri earlier in the day and planned a stop in Colorado. While approaching La Junta Airport in Colorado, the aircraft encountered wind shifts, downdrafts, and turbulent weather conditions. The pilot attempted several landings. During one of these attempts, while turning onto final approach in dark night conditions, the aircraft impacted terrain at an elevation of 4,500 feet mean sea level.
Details
The flight originated from Washington, D.C., with a final destination of Lancaster, California. The pilot and a passenger who held a pilot certificate were aboard. They departed from Missouri and planned to stop in Colorado. The accident occurred while approaching La Junta Airport. The weather included wind shifts, downdrafts, and turbulence. The pilot made several unsuccessful landing attempts. On the final attempt, while turning onto final approach, the aircraft struck the ground at 4,500 feet msl. The accident happened during dark night conditions. No other information regarding injuries, aircraft damage, or probable cause is provided in the source.