The TSB report indicates that the pilot attempted to fly to Lorna Lake earlier in the day but was forced to divert due to poor visibility. During the second attempt, the pilot encountered worsening weather conditions with low clouds and reduced visibility. As the plane approached Lorna Lake, the pilot attempted to turn around, but the plane’s speed decreased rapidly, causing a probable stall or downdraft that led to the crash.
The TSB report also highlights the potential impact of close interactions between passengers and pilots on decision-making. In the case of air taxi pilots, their role often entails providing customer service, which can create challenges in prioritizing safety.
According to the report, the pilot’s previous unsuccessful attempt to reach Lorna Lake likely contributed to her determination to find a way to reach the destination. This may have influenced her judgment in assessing the visibility and cloud height as acceptable for continuing the flight.