Overview
An instrument-rated pilot departed under visual flight rules approximately one minute after the end of civil twilight. About nine minutes after departure, the pilot contacted San Juan CERAP and requested flight following to the destination airport. The controller advised the pilot to resume own navigation. Approximately 12 minutes after takeoff, the pilot transmitted, "San Juan Approach ah, 5033Y ah I'm kinda lost ah I lost my bearing out here I need direct." The controller provided a heading of 140 degrees, which the pilot acknowledged.
Flight Sequence
Recorded radar data indicated that the airplane flew a south-southwesterly heading for approximately 2 minutes 21 seconds, and the flight descended to 1,600 feet. Subsequent radar data showed numerous heading and altitude changes, with the lowest recorded altitude being 300 feet. The controller then attempted to direct the pilot to the departure airport, but the pilot did not acknowledge the transmission. The last recorded radar target indicated the airplane at 2,000 feet, located at 17 degrees 57 minutes 41 seconds North latitude and 064 degrees 59 minutes 04 seconds West longitude.
Weather Conditions
Level 1-4 showers had occurred over the Caribbean Sea between the departure and destination airports during the hour prior to departure, but there was no significant echoes along the airplane's flight route while airborne. Additionally, low-level clouds resulting from the previous precipitation were probably in the area.
Search Efforts
A search for the occupants and wreckage was performed by the U.S. Coast Guard. No debris or bodies were ever recovered.