What happened
During the final stages of a scenic flight, the aircraft was cruising at approximately 800 feet above the ground when the engine power dropped to 20 inches of manifold pressure. Although the engine remained operational and smooth, it failed to respond to throttle advances. Despite the pilot's attempts to recover the lost power, the engine could not maintain the necessary performance to support the aircraft's weight.
As the aircraft flew over a forested region, the pilot attempted to maneuver toward a more suitable landing site to the southwest, targeting an open area near a road and an airstrip. This maneuver required crossing an escarpment; however, the aircraft's descent rate prevented the pilot from reaching the intended clearing. After issuing a distress signal and briefing the passengers, the pilot prepared for an emergency landing.
The aircraft descended into the trees, making initial contact with a tree at roughly seven meters above the ground. The aircraft continued through the forest canopy for an additional 40 meters before coming to a complete stop in an inverted position on the forest floor. Following the impact, all passengers successfully evacuated the wreckage and were subsequently rescued by a helicopter.