What happened
An aircraft departed from the Igiugig Airstrip under challenging meteorological conditions characterized by heavy snowfall and low cloud ceilings. As the plane began its ascent, the pilot encountered significantly reduced visibility. During the climb phase, the aircraft experienced a loss of control and subsequently struck the slope of a mountain.
The impact resulted in the total destruction of the aircraft. There were four fatalities recorded among the occupants of the plane.
Findings
Investigations into the accident identified that the pilot attempted to maintain visual flight rules despite the deteriorating weather. The primary factor contributing to the loss of control was the decision to continue the flight into adverse weather conditions. Additional contributing elements included:
- Poor in-flight decision-making by the crew
- Presence of snow and restricted visibility