Accident Summary
A private pilot who was not instrument rated was operating an airplane during cruise when it collided with a radio and television tower and subsequently impacted terrain, resulting in the destruction of the airplane. The accident occurred as visual meteorological conditions transitioned to instrument meteorological conditions. No flight plan had been filed.
Witness and Weather Conditions
Two witnesses observed the airplane flying eastbound and saw it impact the tower. Approximately 10 minutes before the accident, the tower site manager had inspected the tower for approaching snow and confirmed that the tower's lights were operational. The tower was depicted on the sectional aeronautical chart. Weather observations from two locations near the accident site reported wind from 360 degrees at 19 to 23 knots with gusts up to 33 knots, visibility 10 statute miles, and overcast ceilings ranging from 900 to 2,500 feet. Temperatures were around 1 to 2 degrees Celsius with dew points near -1 degree Celsius.
Wreckage Examination
The airplane's fuselage came to rest inverted about one-tenth of a mile from the base of the antenna on a magnetic heading of 101 degrees. The tower was found on the ground folded in an accordion shape. The wings were separated from the fuselage in a debris field that extended southward about three-tenths of a mile on a heading of approximately 171 degrees from the antenna base. An on-scene investigation revealed no pre-impact anomalies. Flight control continuity was established, and all breaks in control cables were consistent with overload. Engine controls were checked and continuity was established. The airspeed indicator's needle was trapped at an indication of 120 mph. The fuel selector was found in a detent, and a liquid smelling of aviation gasoline was present in the fuel selector valve. The propeller exhibited leading-edge nicks and gouges, and the color of a media transfer on the propeller was consistent with the aviation orange paint on the tower.
Structural Findings
The right wing exhibited a rearward semicircular crush about the outer third of its leading edge. The right horizontal stabilator was torn from the empennage and showed a semicircular rearward crush at its root. The trim tab for the left horizontal stabilator was torn about its midspan, and the torn section remained attached to the right horizontal stabilator trim tab. The separations of the left and right wings were consistent with overload. The bottom skin of the left wing exhibited linear tearing from its leading edge to its flap about three feet outboard of its wing root. A global positioning system was installed in the airplane.