Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot’s decision to commence the flight in marginal visual flight rules conditions at night, and his failure to maintain a safe altitude once instrument conditions were encountered.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot reported that he was returning to his home base under night, marginal, visual flight rules conditions. While enroute, he inadvertently entered instrument conditions and a sudden “snow squall.” He was blinded by the snow and tried to maintain wings level. The airplane gradually descended and impacted trees and terrain, which resulted in substantial damage. The pilot reported that there were no pre-accident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. He had received some instrument training; however, he was not instrument rated.