What happened
A flight intended for local area familiarization under Title 14, CFR Part 91 ended in the disappearance of an aircraft and its three occupants. The crew, which included the pilot, a company check pilot, and a second company pilot acting as a passenger, was performing low-level maneuvers to simulate routine animal and bird counting missions. At the time of the incident, weather conditions were visual, though moderate turbulence was expected in the region.
Tracking data from a satellite position reporting device provided the last known movements of the aircraft. Radar and GPS information showed the plane traveling at speeds between 97 and 111 knots along a peninsula coast. During its final flight path, the aircraft moved toward the center of a saltwater inlet. The data recorded altitude fluctuations, with the plane descending to 112 feet above the water surface and reaching a maximum of 495 feet at the final recorded position. The tracking signal ceased approximately 3 miles offshore.
Despite an extensive search operation, the aircraft and all three occupants remain missing. The search area is characterized by powerful currents, extreme tidal changes, and low visibility caused by high levels of glacial silt.
Findings
Review of the aircraft's maintenance records revealed no outstanding or unresolved mechanical issues. The pilots on board were both highly experienced in the specific aircraft type and held airline transport certificates. The final flight path indicated the aircraft was flying at a low altitude over the water before the signal was lost.