Accident Details
The airplane collided with terrain shortly after departure. According to the pilot's friend, who had departed earlier, weather conditions were clear at the time of his departure. However, as the accident pilot departed, a fog bank moved in, reducing visibility.
Sequence of Events
In response to the encroaching fog, the pilot initiated a right turn in an attempt to land. During the turn, the pilot observed a hill ahead and added power in an effort to avoid it. Despite these actions, the airplane impacted the hillside.
Contributing Factors
Dense fog conditions were present at the time of the accident. The pilot did not obtain a weather briefing prior to departure. Investigators found no evidence of preimpact mechanical malfunctions.