Incident Overview
The aircraft, with the pilot as the sole occupant, flew directly into the side of a mountain. The impact occurred at an elevation of 1,280 feet on a peak that rises to 1,320 feet. The accident took place at night in an area designated as mountainous.
Recommended Altitude
For this specific mountainous region, the recommended minimum flight altitude during nighttime operations is 3,500 feet. The aircraft was flying significantly below this guidance at the time of the collision.
Mechanical Condition
Investigators found no evidence of any mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane. The aircraft appeared to have been in normal operating condition prior to the impact.
Pilot Information
The pilot was the only person on board and did not survive the accident.
Official Findings
The investigation determined that the accident occurred during the cruise phase of flight. The probable cause was an in-flight collision with terrain. Contributing factors included the mountainous and hilly terrain, the pilot's poor in-flight planning and decision-making, the dark night lighting conditions, and the pilot's decision to fly at an inadequate altitude.