What happened
During a scheduled flight review involving a pilot and an instructor, the aircraft requested access to maneuvering airspace between 13,000 and 15,000 feet MSL. Following takeoff, the pilot maintained radio contact to coordinate airwork within this designated altitude block. Approximately eight minutes into the flight, air traffic control attempted to contact the pilot to verify the aircraft's heading, but received no response.
Radar analysis indicated that at an altitude of roughly 14,000 feet MSL, the aircraft performed two complete 360-degree turns. After these maneuvers, the plane traveled north-northeast for approximately 2.5 miles before executing an abrupt right turn. This maneuver was immediately followed by a rapid descent, which indicated a loss of control. The aircraft continued to descend quickly until it struck trees and the ground while traveling on a southerly heading. No emergency communications were transmitted prior to the impact.
Findings
Investigation of the wreckage showed that the debris was widely fragmented, though all primary structural elements and flight control surfaces remained within the debris path. Post-impact examination of the engine revealed that the components had been rotating and operating at the time of the crash. There were no identified mechanical failures or engine malfunctions that would have prevented the aircraft from operating normally.