Flight Details
During a cross-country instrument flight rules (IFR) flight, the pilot was in contact with air traffic control personnel. The controller cleared the airplane to flight level 210 and authorized a deviation east of the planned route to avoid weather and traffic.
Radar and Communication
A review of radar data indicated that the airplane initially headed southward from the departure airport while climbing to approximately 14,800 feet mean sea level (msl). Shortly thereafter, the airplane turned north, prompting the controller to query the pilot about the turn. The pilot did not respond.
Wreckage and Breakup
The airplane wreckage was located on ranch land. Sections of the outer wing, engines, elevators, and vertical and horizontal stabilizers were separated from the fuselage and scattered in multiple directions. This damage pattern is consistent with an in-flight breakup before impact with terrain.
Weather Conditions
Weather information for the route indicated widely scattered thunderstorms and a southerly surface wind of 30 knots with gusts to 40 knots. An AIRMET was active, advising of moderate turbulence below flight level 180. Three pilot reports within 50 miles of the accident site described moderate turbulence and mountain wave activity. An assessment of humidity and freezing level noted potential for clear, light-mixed, or rime icing between 10,700 and 17,300 feet msl.
Mechanical Examination
Postaccident examination of the airframe and engines did not reveal any mechanical malfunctions or anomalies that would have precluded normal operation.
Likely Encounter
Based on the available information, it is likely the airplane encountered heavy to extreme turbulence and icing conditions during the flight, which led to the pilot’s loss of control and subsequent in-flight breakup.