What happened
On the night of the accident, approximately six minutes following takeoff, the pilot of N8CC, a Mitsubishi MU-2, reported maintaining a level altitude of 9,000 feet MSL. Shortly thereafter, the pilot transmitted distress communications indicating that the aircraft was descending and that he was unable to disengage or control the autopilot system. During this period, the descent rate was reported at 6,000 feet per minute.
While another pilot attempted to assist by suggesting the disconnection of the autopilot circuit breaker, the pilot of N8CC indicated he would call back. Immediately following these transmissions, all radio and radar contact with the aircraft was lost. A search operation commenced, and the wreckage was located the next morning. The investigation determined that the Mitsubishi MU-2 struck the ground in a high-speed, inverted, and steep nose-down attitude, with much of the debris buried upon impact.
Findings
The investigation confirmed there were no mechanical failures or part malfunctions present prior to the collision. It was determined that if back pressure is applied to the control column while the autopilot is active, the system may trim the aircraft into a nose-down configuration. The accident occurred during a period of darkness and involved an uncontrolled descent. Contributing factors included the pilot's lack of familiarity with the aircraft's systems and inadequate execution of emergency procedures. Following the event, the manufacturer released a safety advisory to all owners regarding the correct operation and disengagement methods for the autopilot system.
There was one fatality and no survivors.