Flight Details
The pilot was flying the second airplane in a flight of two, approximately one mile behind the lead airplane. The lead pilot reported decreasing visibility via radio and initiated a 180-degree turn to the left to exit the area.
Pilot Report
After losing sight of the lead airplane, the pilot made a shallow climbing turn to the right and noticed the terrain rising. He entered the clouds for a few seconds and subsequently struck trees, stating, "At that moment I ran into the trees which I never saw coming." The airplane sustained substantial damage to both wings. The pilot reported no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation.
Meteorological Conditions
The pilot reported the temperature as 60° Fahrenheit, visibility 8 miles, and ceilings at 1,500 feet. The nearest METAR, located about one mile away, indicated a temperature of 54° Fahrenheit, dew point 52° Fahrenheit, visibility 8 statute miles with light rain, a broken ceiling at 500 feet, and an overcast ceiling at 1,500 feet.