Accident Details
According to the official report, the aircraft stalled and crashed while executing a turn at a low altitude near Kenai, Alaska. The pilot sustained fatal injuries, and the passenger was seriously injured.
Investigation Findings
The investigation identified that the stall occurred after the pilot failed to maintain flying speed. Several contributing factors were documented:
- The pilot exercised poor judgment.
- Preflight preparation was inadequate.
- The aircraft was improperly loaded.
- Unfavorable wind conditions were present.
- The maneuver involved a low level turn.
- The aircraft was at least 1,230 pounds over its maximum gross weight.
- The center of gravity was 5% aft of the rear limits.
Probable Cause
The official probable cause of the accident was a stall after the pilot failed to maintain flying speed. Contributing factors included the pilot's poor judgment, inadequate preflight preparation, improper loading, unfavorable wind conditions, the low level turn, the aircraft being significantly overweight, and an aft center of gravity.