THE DTSB
The DTSB determines the Probable Cause of this accident to be pilot error, in that the non instrument rated pilot elected to make a takeoff in heavy snowfall with visibility one half mile or less. After takeoff the pilot attempted to stay visual and return for landing and eventually lost all outside visual reference, and subsequently flew the aircraft into the ground at high speed.
NTSB
The NTSB determines the probable cause(s) of this accident to be:
The non-instrument-rated pilot’s decision to depart under visual flight rules into instrument
meteorological conditions, which resulted in an inflight collision with terrain while
maneuvering.
THE DTSB
The DTSB recommends that all pilots of all aircraft be extremely careful in decisions concerning takeoffs in poor weather conditions, especially those not trained or rated for IFR flight. The DTSB recommends that if a pilot encounters loss of ground contact after takeoff, immediately revert to instrument flight, remain wings level, do not look outside, climb and declare an emergency. Ask for ATC assistance in getting back down again. The use of preventative ADM is highly encouraged.
NTSB
None issued. NTSB recommendations are rare and usually tied to high-profile accidents.
See the NTSB Recommendation Tracker →