What happened
During an instrument flight rules (IFR) flight, the pilot experienced significant difficulties communicating with various air traffic control sectors, including clearance delivery, ground control, and departure control. Although the pilot had requested and obtained an IFR clearance after takeoff, the aircraft's flight path became highly unstable. Radar tracking indicated that during the final five minutes of the flight, the aircraft underwent approximately ten heading changes, swinging between 45° and 180°, while simultaneously fluctuating in altitude between 4,500 feet and 11,500 feet MSL. These maneuvers were not directed by air traffic controllers.
Approximately three minutes prior to the accident, departure control queried the pilot regarding potential issues. The pilot acknowledged a problem, stating the crew was attempting to stabilize the aircraft. One minute later, the pilot reported that they were fine. Shortly thereafter, the aircraft suffered a loss of control, leading to a total loss of radar contact and communications. An explosion was observed on the ground at the site of the accident. The crash resulted in seven fatalities.
Findings
Investigations revealed that the pilot did not receive a weather briefing before departure, despite unfavorable weather conditions being present in the area. Furthermore, a review of the pilot's medical history by an FAA flight surgeon determined that the pilot was taking three different prescription medications and managing three physical conditions. These medical factors would have rendered the pilot medically unqualified to operate an aircraft.