Accident Overview
According to official records, a personal flight departing from an airport at an elevation of 1,096 feet mean sea level sustained substantial damage after impacting trees, terrain, and a residence approximately one mile from the departure airport. The accident occurred during instrument meteorological conditions.
Flight Details
The flight was operating under an instrument flight rules (IFR) flight plan. The flight plan included an equipment suffix indicating the aircraft was equipped with a Global Positioning System (GPS). However, aircraft records show that while a GPS was installed, it was not approved for IFR navigation.
Departure and Radar Data
The pilot received a departure clearance to 3,000 feet with a heading of 130 degrees. Radar data indicates that the airplane leveled off at approximately 2,000 feet for a 32-second period while executing a right turn toward the assigned heading.
Impact and Wreckage
Witnesses reported that the airplane impacted terrain in a right-wing, nose-low attitude. The wreckage distribution and ground scarring were consistent with a high-speed impact. No anomalies were found that would have precluded normal operation of the airplane.
Weight and Loading
Calculations showed that the airplane's weight at the time of the accident was approximately 597 pounds above its maximum gross weight.
Probable Cause
The probable cause of the accident was the pilot's failure to maintain adequate altitude/clearance during cruise flight, resulting in a collision with trees. Contributing factors were the low altitude and low ceiling.