Accident Details
During a flight from Red Devil to Anchorage, the aircraft was traveling over mountainous terrain when the pilot encountered severe downdrafts. The airplane subsequently crashed in flames on hilly terrain near Sparrevohn. Both occupants suffered injuries and the aircraft was destroyed.
Investigation Findings
The accident investigation determined that the event was a controlled collision with ground. The official probable cause was listed as "Controlled collision with ground during normal due to improper in-flight decisions." Additionally, two contributing factors were identified: downdrafts and wind gusting to 40 knots.
Probable Cause and Contributing Factors
The probable cause, as stated in the official findings, is a controlled collision with ground during normal due to improper in-flight decisions. Contributing factors include downdrafts and wind gusting 40 knots.