Primary finding
Probable cause
The non-current student pilot's failure to maintain adequate clearance from terrain while operating at night, in instrument meteorological conditions.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot held an expired student pilot certificate. He took off at night with local weather reports of 200 foot ceilings, 3/4 miles visibility in fog. The airplane impacted hilly terrain 11 miles north of the departure airport on army base property. A postimpact fire ensued. Postaccident investigation revealed no evidence of preimpact mechanical malfunction.
Source record
Factual narrative
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