Flight and Weather Conditions
A for-hire sightseeing tour flight impacted rising mountainous volcanic terrain after the pilot encountered deteriorating weather. The pilot had been employed by the operator for 11 days prior to the accident and this flight was the pilot's first 14 CFR Part 135 revenue tour flight.
Two pilots who flew the route shortly before the accident reported encountering low visibility and light rain in the area of the accident. They conducted their flights along the shoreline to avoid the weather conditions.
After departure, the pilot was flying south along a highway between the mountains and the coast. The passengers said that within 10 minutes of takeoff, they began to encounter weather conditions that would "get bad, clear up, and get bad again." Both passengers believed the pilot was trying to get out of the clouds. The passengers stated that they were in the clouds and then suddenly they could see the mountain in front of them and the airplane hit the ground.
Pilot Statement
The pilot stated that the airplane remained clear of the clouds, but encountered a severe downdraft and turbulence that she was maneuvering to get out of when the airplane hit the mountain.
Weather Analysis
A review of weather reports, forecasts, and satellite data showed clouds covered the accident site. Upper air data analysis indicated the potential for mountain wave activity with maximum vertical velocities of 100 feet per minute. An AIRMET was valid for the time and location of the accident, calling for potential moderate turbulence below 6,000 feet.
Mechanical Examination
No evidence of preimpact mechanical malfunction or failure was found during an examination of the wreckage.