What happened
During a flight through mountainous terrain, the pilot originally intended to proceed westward under Visual Flight Rules (VFR). However, as cloud cover descended and weather conditions worsened, the pilot altered the flight path to head south.
While navigating a passage between two mountains, the single engine aircraft encountered significant atmospheric turbulence. In an attempt to maneuver the aircraft, the pilot decided to initiate a return, but the plane lost altitude during the process. The aircraft subsequently struck a line of trees, which caused both wings to be severed from the fuselage. The wreckage came to rest in a heavily wooded area.
Findings
- The pilot's decision to change course due to deteriorating weather conditions.
- Encounter with atmospheric turbulence while flying between mountain peaks.
- Loss of altitude leading to impact with vegetation.