Accident Details
Shortly after departing from Iliamna, the pilot of a single-engine airplane was unable to maintain flying speed. In poor weather conditions, the aircraft stalled and subsequently crashed into a snow-covered field. All eight people on board escaped with minor injuries, while the airplane was completely destroyed.
Investigation Findings
According to the official investigation, the probable cause of the accident was a stall during normal cruise after the pilot failed to maintain flying speed. Several contributing factors were reported: improper in-flight decisions or planning, continued visual flight rules (VFR) flight into adverse weather conditions, snow, conditions conducive to carburetor or induction system icing, visibility of two miles or less, and instrument flight rules (IFR) weather conditions.