Accident Overview
A Cessna 208B struck a ridge line approximately 14 miles from the destination airport. The pilot had reported to air traffic control that the airport was in sight from an altitude of 7,000 feet MSL while more than 30 miles away. The airplane was descending after the pilot was cleared for a visual approach. It collided with a tree and the ground in a wings level attitude at an elevation of 1,500 feet MSL. There was no evidence of mechanical failure or malfunction found with the airplane.
Weather Conditions
A weather reporting station located 5 miles east of the accident site reported two cloud layers: a scattered layer at 1,500 feet AGL and a broken layer at 5,000 feet AGL. The accident occurred during darkness, as noted in the official findings.
Investigation Findings
The investigation found that the pilot had initiated a descent 14 miles from the airport. The aircraft impacted terrain in a wings-level attitude, indicating controlled flight into terrain. No pre-existing mechanical issues were identified.
Probable Cause
The official probable cause was the failure of the pilot-in-command to maintain visual contact with terrain and sufficient altitude for terrain clearance. Contributing factors included the pilot's decision to initiate a descent 14 miles from the airport, and weather conditions, specifically cloud layers and darkness.