Accident Overview
An airplane operating in controlled flight collided with rising, high mountainous terrain on Mount Shasta at an elevation of 11,850 feet mean sea level (msl), approximately 2,400 feet below the summit. The accident is classified as a controlled flight into terrain (CFIT).
Weather Conditions
Instrument meteorological conditions prevailed in the vicinity of the mountain. Prior to departure, the pilot had received a weather briefing, and the conditions were essentially as forecasted. Cloud bases were reported between 7,000 and 8,000 feet msl, with tops extending to 16,000 feet. The upper portion of Mount Shasta was obscured by clouds.
Flight Details
Recorded radar data showed that after departure, the pilot climbed to a cruise altitude of 11,500 feet. The flight track was consistent with a direct route between the departure and destination airports, leading directly to the accident site. The pilot had a handheld GPS navigation system, the airplane was equipped with an autopilot, and he was familiar with the flight route.
Wreckage Investigation
The accident site lies in an extremely hazardous avalanche zone on the mountain. Neither search and rescue climbers nor Safety Board investigators were able to reach the wreckage. Detailed aerial photographs were taken and reviewed. All aerodynamic surfaces were present at the site. Review of photographs showing the top and bottom surfaces of the airplane revealed no evidence of fire or engine oil leakage.