Primary finding
Probable cause
The non instrument rated pilot in command entering instrument meteorological conditions. A factor in the accident was the snow/whiteout condition.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The non instrument rated private pilot reported that he entered whiteout conditions caused by blowing snow shortly after becoming airborne and unintentionally allowed the plane to descend and collide with the frozen surface of the lake. The pilot further reported that he did not have a current biennial flight review (bfr) or flight medical and that he did not recall having received instruction on how to execute a 180 degree change of direction turn using only the basic (partial panel) flight instruments.
Source record
Factual narrative
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