Accident Overview
During an aerial survey flight around mountainous terrain, the aircraft was reported overdue and missing. The wreckage was located approximately six months later in a valley surrounded by high terrain. Investigators documented ground disturbances and impact signatures at the accident site that indicated the aircraft collided with the terrain in a nose-down attitude.
Damage and Fire
Impact damage and a subsequent post-crash fire destroyed the aircraft. The fire consumed much of the structure, leaving only fragmented wreckage.
Wreckage Examination
Post-crash inspection of the wreckage and engine did not reveal evidence of a mechanical failure or malfunction. No pre-impact anomalies were identified in the airframe or powerplant.
Conclusion
The investigation concluded that the aircraft impacted terrain in a nose-down attitude, resulting in destruction by impact and fire. No mechanical cause was found.