Bellanca 7GCBC N5034K accident near Douglas, Wyoming

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain clearance from the terrain while maneuvering during an aerial observation flight.

NTSB analysis

During an aerial wildlife observation flight, the wildlife biologist requested that the pilot maneuver the airplane at a lower altitude over a specific location. While in a descending turn, the pilot intentionally entered a left-wing-low slip in an effort to increase the rate of descent. At the end of the turn, the airplane's rate of descent increased significantly, and the pilot was unable to level the wings prior to the left wing impacting terrain. A postaccident examination revealed that there was no evidence of a mechanical malfunction or failure with the airplane.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR10LA406 for the full record.