Accident Sequence
The airplane was on a visual approach to the airport (identifier M39) when it collided with terrain at the 2,061-foot level of a 2,601-foot mountain. The pilot, an airline transport rated individual with 3,241 hours of flight experience, had climbed to an altitude of 5,600 feet AGL while in visual flight rules (VFR) conditions and requested and obtained traffic advisories from ARTCC. At approximately 1228, the pilot initiated a visual approach to M39. The last radar contact with the airplane was established at 1232, at which time the pilot was cleared to the UNICOM frequency and instructed to squawk 1200. The final radar position indicated the airplane was at an altitude of 3,100 feet AGL, descending with a ground speed of 116 knots, and located 11 nautical miles northeast of M39.
Weather Conditions
A pilot who was flying into the airport at approximately the same time provided observations. That pilot described the weather as overcast and solid with a low ceiling. While conducting a VFR approach to the airport, this pilot had to descend below 2,000 feet, after which fog was encountered. To clear the mountains, the pilot flew northeast and then through a valley, where severe turbulence was experienced. Upon landing, this pilot reported the ceiling was at 1,500 feet and foggy conditions persisted, although the official weather report indicated clear skies.