The pilot’s failure to maintain control of the airplane due to spatial disorientation. Contributing to the accident were the water and dark night conditions which resulted in the lack of ground references during the takeoff.
Herding cattle with plane fatal mistake
The pilot’s failure to maintain adequate clearance from power transmission lines while maneuvering. The pilot’s diverted attention and decision to maneuver at a low altitude were factors.
Cessna comes up short on approach
The proper touchdown point not obtained by the pilot and the inadequate supervision by the instructor during landing. A contributing factor was the rough terrain encountered during landing.
VFR flight into IMC proves fatal
The non-instrument-rated pilot’s loss of control at night in marginal night VFR operations due to spatial disorientation. A factor in the accident was the pilot’s improper decision to continue the flight in deteriorating conditions.
Go-around goes bad
The pilot’s inadvertent stall during an attempted go-around. A contributing factor was the pilot’s failure to place the electronic prop controller in the manual mode prior to initiating a go-around, which resulted in a loss of engine power.
Fuel mismanagement leads to misfortune
The pilot’s inadequate fuel management.
Overloaded airplane stalls on takeoff
The pilot’s improper use of flaps during takeoff, which resulted in reduced climb performance and a subsequent stall. Contributing to the accident was the overloading of the airplane.
Distraction results in bad landing
The pilot’s failure to attain the proper touchdown point.
Cardiac condition leads to crash
The pilot’s inability to maintain control of the airplane due to physical incapacitation. Contributing to the accident was the failure of the FAA to deny or restrict the pilot’s medical certification, and the pilot’s improper decision to perform the flight given his recent history of worsening symptoms.