Incident Overview
On a firefighting mission departing from Greybull, the crew flew their aircraft at low altitude. The aircraft entered an area of smoke and subsequently struck the tops of trees, causing the aircraft to crash and burn in a wooded area. Both pilots were killed.
Investigation Results
The official investigation into the accident determined that the probable cause was improper in-flight decisions or planning on the part of the flying crew. Factors that contributed to the accident included obstructions to vision (from the smoke), hidden obstructions (trees not visible), high obstructions (tall trees), and the specific event of the right wing striking the highest trees in the flight path.
Aftermath
The accident resulted in the deaths of both pilots. The aircraft was destroyed by the impact and subsequent fire.