Cessna T206H N915DV accident near Orangeville, Utah

Probable cause

The pilot's controlled flight into mountainous terrain for reasons that could not be determined.

NTSB analysis

After departing, the airplane climbed to about 8,800 ft on a southwest course and remained at that altitude and on that heading until impacting terrain. No meteorological conditions were present that would have affected the pilot’s visibility on the visual flight rules flight.

Although examination of the wreckage did not reveal evidence of pre-impact mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation, flight control continuity could not be fully confirmed due to extensive impact and fire damage. There was no evidence of an in-flight bird strike. Additionally, due to the extent of the pilot’s injuries, evaluation of his autopsy for evidence of medical factors that may have affected his ability to operate the airplane was limited. The toxicological examination revealed that the pilot had used the medication cetirizine; however, whether the pilot may have been experiencing some associated mild sedation at the time of the accident could not be determined.

Due to the airplane’s extensive impact and fire damage, and the extent of the pilot’s injuries, the reason for the airplane’s controlled flight into terrain could not be determined.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR24FA024 for the full record.