Accident Details
A twin-engine airplane, having departed from Santa Ana-John Wayne Airport, experienced a loss of control shortly after takeoff during the transition from climb to cruise. The aircraft encountered adverse weather conditions, entered a dive, and subsequently crashed near Spring Valley Lake. Impact forces caused the aircraft to disintegrate. All seven occupants sustained fatal injuries. The wreckage was located approximately one day after the accident.
Official Findings
The probable cause of the accident was loss of control during climb to cruise after the pilot initiated flight in adverse weather conditions. Contributing factors identified in the investigation included improper in-flight decisions, low ceiling, fog, high obstructions, and operation below minimum required weather conditions.