What happened
A private flight departed from Lafayette Regional Airport/Paul Fournet Field (LFT) in Louisiana. Following takeoff, the pilot received instrument flight rules clearance to climb to 2,000 feet mean sea level while turning right to a heading of 240 degrees. Shortly after entering the clouds at approximately 200 feet, the aircraft began a series of unusual maneuvers. ADS-B data indicates that while the aircraft was climbing, it began rolling toward a left bank.
As the flight continued, the aircraft reached a maximum altitude of 925 feet mean sea level. At this point, the plane began a steady descent accompanied by a continuous left roll. The descent rate increased significantly, reaching approximately 2,500 feet per minute as the aircraft passed through 320 feet. Air traffic control issued a low altitude alert to the pilot, noting the aircraft appeared to be at only 300 feet, but the pilot provided no response and no emergency distress calls were made.
The final recorded data point showed the aircraft descending through 230 feet at a steep flightpath angle. The aircraft subsequently struck trees and power lines before impacting the ground. The wreckage traveled across a parking lot and collided with a vehicle, causing the car to overturn and ignite. The aircraft continued forward, losing components before coming to a final stop in a nearby field. There were no reported fatalities, though the crash involved a surviving passenger.
Findings
- The aircraft was operating under instrument flight rules following takeoff.
- The aircraft experienced an uncontrolled descent and left-wing roll during the initial climb phase.
- The aircraft struck various obstacles, including trees and power lines, prior to ground impact.