Accident Overview
An air taxi aircraft departed Shreveport, Louisiana, at approximately 0500 central standard time on an unscheduled domestic cargo flight. The pilot reported on company frequency at about 0815 eastern standard time that he was approximately 30 minutes from the destination in Orlando, Florida. Subsequently, the aircraft crashed in the northwest part of Lake Apopka, approximately 15 to 20 miles west-northwest of the destination airport.
Witness and Impact Details
A witness heard the crash and later saw parts from the aircraft but did not see the actual impact. Evidence indicated the aircraft impacted in a shallow descent while in a slight left wing low attitude, traveling at a relatively high speed. No preimpact part failure or malfunction of the aircraft or engine was found, though the aircraft was extensively damaged and some wreckage was not recovered from the lake.
Weather Conditions
At the time, Orlando weather was reported as: 2,500 feet scattered clouds, visibility 6 miles with fog and haze, wind from 350° at 4 knots.
Occupants and Outcome
Both occupants were killed.
Probable Cause (Official Findings)
Failure of the pilot to maintain altitude/clearance above the water, while proceeding over a lake and approaching the vicinity of the airport.