Flight and Weather Advisory
While operating under Instrument Flight Rules (IFR), the pilot was advised by an air traffic controller of an area of moderate to heavy precipitation located at the twelve o'clock position, five miles ahead. The pilot indicated an intention to deviate around the weather by turning to a 300-degree heading.
Controller's Display and Weather Data
Examination of recorded display data revealed that when the pilot announced the planned heading change, the controller's display showed moderate (Level 2), heavy (Level 3 to 4), and intense to extreme (Level 5 to 6) weather in that direction. The controller did not advise the pilot of the depicted weather as required by FAA Order 7110.65, paragraph 2-6-4, "Weather and Chaff Services." Further review of weather radar images confirmed that shortly after the heading change, the airplane penetrated an intense Level 5 thunderstorm.
Pilot-Controller Communications
Approximately one minute after the heading change, the pilot asked the controller if the current heading was clear of weather. The controller responded that he could not suggest any headings. About two minutes later, the pilot again inquired about weather ahead, but the controller did not respond. Approximately 30 seconds after that, the pilot asked again about weather in front and reported being in "difficult shape." The controller then responded that the display showed the airplane encountering "extreme precipitation" and asked the pilot his intentions. The pilot requested a heading, and the controller suggested turning 20 degrees to the right. The pilot acknowledged.
Descent and Impact
Shortly after the acknowledgment, the airplane entered a rapid descent. Several witnesses reported seeing the airplane emerge from clouds at an altitude of about 300 feet, on its side, and descending. They observed the airplane maneuvering erratically before it descended and impacted a house at a steep angle. A fire erupted, destroying both the house and the airplane.
Weather Conditions
Witnesses stated that "bad weather" was present in the area at the time of the accident, including heavy rain and lightning. A Convective SIGMET was current for an area of thunderstorms with tops reaching 40,000 feet, which were moving little.