Weather Conditions
Prior to the accident flight, the weather was conducive for visual flight rules operations. However, as the pilot taxied to the runway, the weather deteriorated rapidly.
Flight and Accident
Once airborne, the airplane entered an overcast cloud layer at approximately 300 feet above ground level. After entering the clouds, the airplane was heard circling back toward the airport. Shortly thereafter, it descended out of the overcast at a high rate of speed, in a nose-low attitude, and impacted the ground.
Pilot Information
The pilot held a private pilot certificate but had no instrument rating. In the preceding 90 days, she had flown 27 hours in the accident airplane. However, in the previous year, she did not log any night or instrument flight experience.
Aircraft Examination
Postaccident examination of the airplane did not reveal any evidence of preimpact failures or malfunctions.