Introduction
A private pilot and one passenger were conducting a personal flight in a remote area characterized by tree- and snow-covered terrain. The purpose of the flight was to search for a missing friend.
Flight Details
According to the pilot's report, the flight involved slow maneuvering at an altitude of approximately 75 feet above the ground. During this phase, the passenger observed the missing person lying on the ground near a snow-covered meadow.
Accident Sequence
The pilot reported that upon seeing the missing person, he initiated a right turn to return toward the meadow. He added engine power and began a climb. However, during the turn the right wing stalled. The pilot then initiated a stall recovery maneuver, but the airplane descended nose-down into the trees.
Post-Accident Information
The pilot stated that there were no mechanical problems with the airplane prior to the accident. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the wings, fuselage, and empennage.