Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to maintain situational awareness, and thus clearance from objects, while operating at low altitude.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot was on a local scenic flight with his family. He flew over nearby mountains, and descended to fly over a local ski resort. A family member reported seeing friends in the resort’s parking lot, and the pilot performed a climbing left turn for another pass. He began looking for his friends, and stated that he failed to monitor his altitude. One wing collided with trees and sustained spar and aileron damage. The pilot landed uneventfully at the departure airport.
Source record
Factual narrative
The pilot was on a local scenic flight with his family. He flew over nearby mountains, and descended to fly over a local ski resort. A family member reported seeing friends in the resort’s parking lot, and the pilot performed a climbing left turn for another pass. He began looking for his friends, and stated that he failed to monitor his altitude. One wing collided with trees and sustained spar and aileron damage. The pilot landed uneventfully at the departure airport.