Accident Sequence
The pilot obtained a weather briefing, filed an IFR flight plan, and departed at night from Hot Springs, Arkansas, bound for Pueblo, Colorado. About one minute after takeoff, the pilot advised air traffic control that he needed to return to Hot Springs. He then contacted the airplane operator and stated that the heater was not working. The operator suggested that he return for repairs. Shortly thereafter, the pilot was heard to say, "oh, shoot!" No further radio transmissions were received from the flight.
The airplane subsequently cut a 400-foot swath through trees, and the wreckage path measured 940 feet. With the exception of the heater problem, no pre-impact mechanical failure was evident. Both occupants were killed.
Probable Cause
The official probable cause states that the pilot inadvertently allowed the airplane to descend and collide with trees after he became diverted by an inoperative cabin heater. Darkness was cited as a related factor.
Investigation Findings
Investigators determined that the pilot had received a weather briefing and filed an IFR flight plan. The heater issue was reported after departure, prompting the decision to return. The absence of other mechanical failures suggested that the heater malfunction was the primary distraction leading to the loss of control and subsequent collision with trees.