Accident Overview
During the return leg of a non-scheduled 14 CFR Part 135 VFR cross-country flight, the airplane collided with mountainous terrain at approximately 9,100 feet above mean sea level. Before the accident, the pilot informed air traffic control that he was operating under visual flight rules (VFR) and maintaining level flight at 8,500 feet MSL. The accident occurred under dark night conditions. The aircraft impacted the south-facing slope of a 9,100-foot mountain, near the last recorded radar position. Wreckage and impact signatures at the crash site were consistent with a high-energy, shallow-angle collision with the terrain.
Investigation Findings
The investigation found no evidence of any mechanical problems with the aircraft. The terrain and lighting conditions were examined as part of the inquiry. The pilot's reported altitude of 8,500 feet MSL was below the elevation of the mountain (9,100 feet), indicating insufficient terrain clearance during the cruise phase of flight.
Probable Cause
The probable cause of the accident was the pilot's failure to maintain adequate terrain clearance during cruise, which resulted in the in-flight collision with mountainous terrain. Dark night conditions and mountainous terrain were contributing factors.