What happened
During a flight conducted under instrument meteorological conditions, the pilot contacted air traffic control to request radar flight following, though the communication utilized an incorrect call sign. The aircraft's flight path involved several changes in altitude, climbing to 13,500 feet before descending to 11,500 feet and subsequently ascending back to 13,500 feet. Following this second climb, the plane began a descent that resulted in an impact with terrain at an elevation of 11,900 feet.
Approximately one minute before the collision, the pilot inquired with the air traffic controller regarding minimum altitude requirements for the intended route. The controller provided a minimum instrument altitude range of 15,000 to 15,300 feet. At the time of the incident, the moon had already set. While the controller was aware of the aircraft's position, altitude, and proximity to mountains, no safety alert was provided to the pilot.
Findings
An investigation into the mechanical state of the aircraft, including the engines and related systems, found no operational anomalies. However, there was no evidence that a preflight weather briefing had been conducted. The accident occurred during dark night conditions.
- The pilot's failure to maintain clearance from mountainous terrain was the primary factor in the crash.
- Contributing elements included inadequate preflight planning and errors in in-flight decision making.
- The controller's omission of a safety alert also contributed to the outcome.