What happened
On the night of the accident, a flight was being conducted as a part 135 six-month proficiency check for the pilot occupying the left seat. The crew consisted of two experienced check airmen employed by the commuter air carrier. The flight departed at 23:43, following the conclusion of the company's scheduled revenue operations for the day.
Data recovered from the cockpit voice recorder captured the two pilots engaged in a discussion regarding aerobatic maneuvers. During this conversation, the pilot in the left seat began describing the characteristics of a prohibited maneuver, specifically a barrel roll. The recording ceased before the description of this maneuver was finished.
Upon impact, the aircraft type was found in a nose-level attitude with the left wing positioned slightly downward. The accident resulted in two fatalities, as both pilots were killed in the crash.
Findings
Investigation of the wreckage and flight data provided evidence that an aerial maneuver was attempted at an altitude that was insufficient to allow for a successful recovery of the aircraft. Additionally, a completed grade sheet pertaining to the proficiency check was discovered in the mailbox of the check airman.