What happened
During a flight through the Katberg Pass, the aircraft was operating at an altitude of approximately 300 to 500 feet above the ground, positioned beneath the cloud layer. As the flight progressed toward the mountainous terrain, the cloud ceiling descended, significantly reducing visibility and creating a hazardous environment for the crew.
In response to the deteriorating conditions, the pilot-in-command applied maximum takeoff power (METO) in an effort to navigate the hills. During this maneuver, the right wing struck trees, followed by the right engine propeller making contact with the rising ground. The aircraft subsequently slid along the terrain, coming to a final position against a rock face located roughly 250 yards from the initial tree impact and about 500 feet below the hilltop.
The accident resulted in two fatalities and left five injuries among the occupants of the aircraft.
Findings
Investigations determined that the crash was caused by a pilot error involving an attempt to maintain visual flight at low altitudes near mountains while weather conditions were actively worsening.