Flight Details
The aircraft was operating under an IFR flight plan and was descending into the Patterson area. The pilot received clearance to hold and was informed that he would be the second aircraft for an approach to Patterson Airport. Minutes later, the pilot inquired about the delay, then stated he had the airport in sight, canceled IFR, and proceeded under VFR.
Accident Sequence
A pilot who had just departed Patterson Airport heard a transmission from a Mitsubishi aircraft stating 'turning base.' However, the departing pilot could not see any aircraft on base leg for runway 05 and attempted to contact the Mitsubishi but received no reply. The aircraft subsequently contacted trees while on a heading of approximately 225°. The flaps were extended approximately 5° and the landing gear were extended. All three occupants were killed.
Probable Cause
The official investigation determined the probable cause to be an in-flight collision with objects during the approach—VFR pattern, base turn phase. Specific findings included a low ceiling, misjudgment of altitude by the pilot in command, and the presence of trees.