Accident Summary
A pilot was killed when his aircraft collided with trees and a large electrical transmission line after departing in fog and light rain. The accident occurred shortly after takeoff as the aircraft climbed into clouds and subsequently descended into terrain.
Sequence of Events
The pilot took off in conditions of fog and light rain. During the climb, at approximately 300–400 feet above ground level, the aircraft entered clouds. Both landing lights were extended and illuminated at the time. A ground witness reported that the airport's rotating beacon, located about one mile from the accident site, was flashing on the clouds.
Immediately after entering the clouds, air traffic control issued a left turn from the aircraft's present heading of 350° to a heading of 270° and instructed the pilot to contact departure control. The pilot did not make this contact and instead continued the left turn, now descending, to a heading of 210°. At that point, the aircraft collided with trees and a large electrical transmission line, then struck the ground. The engines were operating at a high power setting at impact.
Investigation Findings
Examination of the wreckage revealed that all broken flight control cables displayed evidence of overstress separation. No evidence of preimpact mechanical failure or malfunction was found. The pilot, who was the sole occupant, was killed in the accident.
The official probable cause findings include: the pilot's failure to maintain directional control, improper use of equipment, failure to maintain proper altitude, and spatial disorientation. Contributing factors were the dark night, fog, and rain conditions. The aircraft also collided with wires (transmission line) and trees during an uncontrolled descent, followed by terrain impact and a post-crash fire.