What happened
Following a departure from an uncontrolled airfield, the pilot attempted to secure an IFR clearance while operating under VFR conditions at an altitude of 3,500 feet. During the period when air traffic controllers were attempting to locate the flight plan and coordinate the requested clearance, communication with the aircraft was lost.
The flight proceeded toward its intended destination, navigating through mountainous terrain that was partially hidden by cloud cover. The wreckage was eventually discovered at an elevation of 4,050 feet, situated approximately 28 nautical miles from the point of departure. There were no signs of mechanical malfunction or engine failure found at the site.
Findings
Investigation of the site revealed no evidence of technical issues with the aircraft. While the pilot maintained the authority to deviate from established flight rules during an emergency or urgency condition, the loss of contact occurred while the crew was transitioning between flight rules. The presence of obscured mountainous terrain during the flight phase was a significant factor in the circumstances surrounding the disappearance.