October 6, 1985

Near Independence Pass

AFTER DEPARTURE FROM GLENWOOD SPRINGS COUNTY ARPT THE PLT INITIATED A CRUISE CLIMB TO FLY OVER A 12,093 FT HIGH MOUNTAIN PASS. HE ENTERED THE NARROW PASS AT AN ALT LOWER THAN THE SUMMIT, ENCOUNTERED DOWNDRAFT WIND CURRENTS AND WAS UNABLE TO CLIMB FAST ENOUGH TO CLEAR RAPIDLY RISING TERRAIN.HE ATTEMPTED A 60 DEG BANK TURN TO REVERSE COURSE WHICH RESULTED IN THE ACFT STALL WARNING ACTIVATING. HE ABORTED THE TURN AND EXECUTED A FORCED LANDING IN MOUNTAINOUS TERRAIN.

Probable Cause

In-flight planning/decision..Improper..Pilot in command
Aircraft performance,climb capability..Exceeded

Contributing Factors

Terrain condition..Mountainous/hilly
Climb..Not possible..Pilot in command