Incident Details
The pilot reported that he was in level cruise flight at 7,000 feet. Approximately 30 miles from his destination, he entered the localizer frequency into his GPS. According to the pilot, the airplane then entered an unusual attitude. After regaining control, the pilot noted that the horizontal situation indicator (HSI) was inaccurate. He navigated to GBD with assistance from air traffic control (ATC).
ATC Response
ATC reported that the pilot stated he was in instrument conditions and had become disoriented. The pilot advised that he was having a lot of trouble and "needed to control the aircraft." He then requested vector or navigational assistance. The controller treated the situation as an emergency and provided vectors to a nearby airport where visual weather conditions prevailed. The pilot was cleared for a visual approach at that airport. The airplane landed without further incident.
Aircraft Examination
An examination of the airplane revealed upward bending of the wing spars on both wings. Flight control continuity was confirmed. No anomalies were found during an examination of the airplane's systems.