Accident Sequence
The instrument-rated pilot taxied to the end of runway 34, received clearance to turn right on course, and was cleared for takeoff. After taking off, the airplane leveled off over the runway, accelerated, and climbed into an indefinite ceiling. The pilot acknowledged a frequency change but subsequently did not check in on the new frequency. The airplane was airborne for approximately 19 seconds, reached a peak altitude of 364 feet above field elevation, and impacted terrain about three-quarters of a mile northeast of the airport.
Weather Conditions
The accident occurred during dusk. A weather observation taken about six minutes before the accident reported visibility of one-quarter mile in fog and an indefinite ceiling at 100 feet above ground level.
Investigation Findings
No evidence of preimpact malfunctions of the airplane, engine, flight instruments, or autopilot was discovered. The circumstances of the accident and the flight path are consistent with spatial disorientation of the pilot.