Accident Summary
A multi-engine airplane operated by a regional airline was conducting a positioning flight in night instrument meteorological conditions. Shortly after takeoff, the aircraft made a slight left turn before initiating a right turn that continued until radar contact was lost. The airplane reached a maximum altitude of 700 feet before impacting terrain approximately three miles northwest of the departure airport. Post-accident examination of the wreckage revealed no preimpact failures.
Weather Conditions
Weather reported at the airport around the time of the accident included a visibility of five statute miles in light rain and mist, with an overcast ceiling at 400 feet.
Investigation Findings
Analysis of radar and weather data indicated that, as the flight accelerated and turned just after entering clouds, the pilot likely experienced spatial disorientation. The official probable cause was determined to be a loss of aircraft control due to spatial disorientation.