Sequence of Events
The pilot was flying over a group of hikers and skiers located on a remote glacier. After making a first pass over the group, the pilot performed a second pass at an altitude of approximately 80 feet above ground level. As the airplane moved away from the group, it collided with the ice and snow-covered surface of the glacier and subsequently overturned. The skiers provided aid to the pilot and contacted rescue personnel.
Weather Conditions
A witness reported that the weather on the glacier at the time consisted of an overcast sky with a ceiling of about 600 feet. Additionally, flat light conditions and haze were present.
Pilot's Account
The pilot stated that during the initial pass over the skiers, he had a visual horizon and could see the sky. He estimated his altitude at approximately 200 feet above the ground. On the second pass, the lighting conditions changed from bright to hazy. The pilot indicated that he was probably looking at the snow-covered surface of the glacier. He noted that the airplane was descending, and he perceived that the glacier was also descending.