Accident Sequence
The aircraft was cleared via a Standard Instrument Departure with an unrestricted climb to Flight Level (FL) 220. It climbed on track at an average rate of 1300 ft/min until FL130, then the rate of climb reduced to 350 ft/min until FL140. At FL140, the rate of climb increased to 1800 ft/min. Upon reaching FL160, the aircraft entered a near vertical descent. Radar contact was lost one minute later at an altitude of 3100 feet. The aircraft impacted the ground in a near vertical attitude. The pilot, sole on board, was killed.
Investigation Findings
Despite an extensive investigation, the reason for the loss of control leading to this accident could not be determined. Investigators noted several other reported occurrences involving sudden loss of control in this aircraft type. The United States Federal Aviation Administration conducted a certification review of the type, but the results of that review do not appear to indicate any factors relevant to this particular accident.