Departure and Witness Observation
The accident airplane departed at approximately 1530 for a search and rescue mission in the mountains. A witness in the area observed an airplane matching the description of the accident airplane flying approximately 400 to 600 feet above the ground.
Discovery of Wreckage
The burning wreckage of the accident airplane was located north of the witness's position at approximately 1800, on the east downsloping face of a vegetated canyon wall. The airplane was destroyed by fire.
Aircraft and Weather Conditions
An examination of the airplane's systems revealed no anomalies. An AIRMET for moderate low-level turbulence was valid for the area. Winds in the area of the accident were recorded gusting to 25 miles per hour. Winds normal to the ridgeline of 20 knots or greater are conducive to leeside turbulence.
Mission Procedures and Pilot Planning
Mission procedures state that the pilot should adjust the search altitude based upon the winds aloft: 10 knots of wind results in an addition of 1,000 feet to the search altitude, and 20 knots of wind results in an addition of 2,000 feet to the search altitude. The pilot reported on his mission planning statement that his search altitude would be 1,000 feet.