What happened
During an early morning departure around 0230, an aircraft climbed to an altitude of 14,5 and operated under visual flight rules (VFR) with flight following services provided by air traffic control. Prior to the flight, the pilot had not requested a weather briefing and departed without receiving authorization from company officials. During the flight, air traffic controllers notified the pilot of moderate precipitation approximately 15 miles ahead on the intended path. Following a handoff to a different controller, the pilot was informed that moderate to extreme precipitation was located only 2 miles ahead. Although the pilot requested rerouting advice, the controller suggested a right turn to the west as a potential solution. The pilot indicated an intention to execute this turn, but radio communication ceased shortly thereafter. Radar tracking data showed the aircraft was in the middle of a right turn when it disappeared from radar. Subsequent analysis of the wreckage and flight path confirmed the aircraft entered a heavy to extreme weather radar echo containing a thunderstorm, which resulted in the in-flight breakup of the aircraft.
Findings
Investigations into the wreckage and engines revealed no mechanical failures or airframe anomalies that would have prevented the aircraft from functioning normally. While the pilot was responsible for maintaining VFR conditions and avoiding cloud formations, the investigation identified issues with air traffic control procedures. Specifically, the delay in communicating severe weather updates meant the pilot was not given timely information to avoid the developing thunderstorm. Furthermore, the weather advisories provided by air traffic control did not meet the required FAA directives, which mandate that controllers provide pertinent weather information and suggest alternate routes or altitudes when significant weather is present.