Primary finding
Probable cause
An encounter with a downdraft while maneuvering at a low altitude, which resulted in an impact with terrain.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot was maneuvering at a low altitude, searching for a suitable off-airport landing area. While in a left turn, the airplane encountered a downdraft that felt like “downward pressure” and was perceived as a loss of control. The pilot leveled the wings and applied full engine power; however, the airplane continued to descend, and impacted terrain. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage, both wings, and empennage. The pilot reported that there were no mechanical anomalies prior to the accident that would have precluded normal operation of the airplane.