Accident Overview
A twin-engine pressurized airplane on a business flight departed at night in instrument meteorological conditions (IMC) with a pilot and two passengers. Shortly after takeoff, the airplane deviated from its assigned altitude and course. The controller queried the pilot, who responded that the airplane was "a little out of control." After regaining control, the pilot reported experiencing a "trim issue."
Flight Sequence
About 13 minutes later, the pilot again reported a trim malfunction and stated difficulty controlling the airplane. The flight's heading and altitude began deviating from the course for the last eight minutes of radar data, becoming more erratic during the final two minutes. Radar and radio communication were subsequently lost at an altitude of approximately 18,300 ft near the accident site.
Witness Reports
Several witnesses reported hearing the airplane flying overhead. They described the airplane as very loud, with a continuous engine sound until the impact.
Wreckage Examination
The airplane impacted a field in a relatively level attitude at high speed. The wreckage was significantly fragmented, with a debris path extending about a quarter mile over several fields. Examination of available airframe and engine components revealed no anomalies that would have precluded normal operation. The airplane was equipped with elevator, rudder, and aileron trim systems; however, not all trim system and avionics components were located or in condition for examination. Although the airplane had an electric elevator trim and autopilot that could be turned off in an emergency, the investigation could not determine which trim system the pilot was reportedly experiencing difficulties with.
Probable Cause
The investigation's official probable cause was an in-flight loss of control for reasons that could not be determined based on the available evidence.