Flight History
While en route, the pilot of N340MV was cleared by Air Route Traffic Control Center (ARTCC) to deviate 20° left of course to avoid thunderstorm activity that ARTCC radar showed was right of course. The pilot reported turbulence but declined to descend to a lower altitude despite a pilot report (PIREP) of clear weather below. He subsequently reported being 'in a cell' with turbulence. Radar and radio contact with the aircraft were then lost.
Another pilot flying approximately 15 miles further south reported no weather but noted extreme weather to the north with near constant lightning.
Accident Sequence
N340MV impacted the ground in a steep nose-down, left wing low attitude, following a descent of 14,000 feet. The landing gear was extended at the time of impact.
Wreckage Examination
Examination of the wreckage revealed no preimpact structural failure or malfunction of any aircraft component. Additionally, there was no evidence of weather damage from hail or lightning.
Weather Conditions
Weather information indicated that there was high altitude thunderstorm activity with turbulence in the area at the time of the accident. The conditions included a dark night, thunderstorms, lightning, and turbulence associated with thunderstorms.
Findings and Probable Cause
The official findings are as follows:
Occurrence #1: In-flight encounter with weather (Phase of operation: cruise)
- Finding 1: In-flight weather avoidance assistance initiated by ATC personnel (ARTCC)
- Finding 2: In-flight planning/decision improper by pilot in command
- Finding 3: Light condition dark night (factor)
- Finding 4: Weather condition thunderstorm (factor)
- Finding 5: Weather condition lightning (factor)
- Finding 6: Weather condition turbulence (thunderstorms) (factor)
Occurrence #2: Loss of control in flight (Phase of operation: cruise)
- Finding 7: Reason for occurrence undetermined by pilot in command (cause)
- Finding 8: Lack of total experience in type of aircraft by pilot in command (factor)
Occurrence #3: In-flight collision with terrain/water (Phase of operation: descent - uncontrolled)
Both occupants were killed in the accident.