Background
During the weather briefing, the pilot was advised that VFR flight was not recommended due to low ceilings and poor visibility. The pilot responded that he had to go to Fort Payne VFR because they have no instrument approach. A Jeppesen US (lo) 29 low altitude enroute chart was found at the wreckage with a line drawn traversing southwest out of the Chattanooga VOR between V-115 and V-115e. The minimum enroute altitude (MEA) for these airways was 4,000 feet msl.
Flight
Prior to departure, the pilot was advised that cloud tops were reported at 4,500 feet with another layer at 9,000 feet. The pilot again stated he was going to Fort Payne and they had no approach there. Approximately 2.5 minutes after takeoff, the pilot reported, "...looks like about 1500 is all we're gonna get right now." About 7 minutes later, the pilot reported they were still VFR but might want to turn around. The aircraft subsequently impacted the top of a north/south ridge line at an elevation of 2,020 feet.
Occupants
The copilot was part of the company's management team. A passenger was seriously injured, while six other occupants were killed.
Probable Cause
The official findings state: Occurrence #1: in flight collision with terrain/water, Phase of operation: cruise. Findings: (1) preflight planning/preparation - inaccurate - pilot in command; (2) weather condition - haze/smoke; (3) weather condition - low ceiling; (4) weather evaluation - misjudged - pilot in command; (5) flight into known adverse weather - continued - pilot in command; (6) company-induced pressure - company/operator management; (7) terrain condition - mountainous/hilly; (8) proper altitude - not maintained - pilot in command.