FYI:  Mountain Flying

On May 11, 2005, at 1256 mountain daylight time, a Cessna T210G operated by a private pilot, was destroyed when it impacted terrain 3 nautical miles northwest of Ouray, Colorado. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time of the accident. The personal flight was being conducted under the provisions of Title 14 CFR Part 91 without a flight plan. The private certificated pilot and three passengers were fatally injured. The cross-country flight departed Page, Arizona, approximately 1150 and was en route to Kelly Airpark, Elbert, Colorado.
 

Whitehouse Mtn in San Juan Mtn Range  >>>>

Concerned family members reported the airplane missing on May 12th. The Civil Air Patrol located the wreckage, 3 nautical miles northwest of Ouray, near Mt. Whitehouse, at approximately 1700 mountain daylight time on May 13th. A debris path, approximately 1/2 mile wide and 1 1/2 miles long was located in mountainous terrain, varying in elevation from 10,000 to 13,500 feet. Due to deep snow, rugged terrain, and avalanche danger, recovery operations are suspended until conditions improve.

According to the Telluride METAR (aviation routine weather report) at 1248 weather was reported as winds 190 degrees at 7 knots, varying from 160 to 230 degrees; visibility, 10 statute miles or greater; sky condition, clear; temperature 6 degrees Celsius (C); dewpoint, minus 14 degrees C; altimeter 29.94.