NTSB Factual Report

On February 18, 2018, about 1505 mountain standard time, a Socata TBM-700A airplane, N700VX, impacted terrain near Evanston, Wyoming. The pilot and passenger were fatally injured, and the airplane was substantially damaged. The airplane was registered to and operated by the pilot under the provisions of 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 as a personal flight. Instrument metrological conditions existed at the airport, and the flight operated on an instrument flight rules flight plan. The flight departed the Tulsa International Airport (KTUL), Tulsa, Oklahoma, about 1210 central standard time and was en route to Evanston-Uinta County Airport/Burns Field (KEVW), Evanston, Wyoming.

The pilot was flying the ILS 23 approach to KEVW. During the approach, the airplane turned left about 180° followed by a right turn before disappearing from radar. Several residents heard the airplane and the accident occur. They called emergency responders who dispatched to the accident site. A post-impact fire ensued which consumed large portions of the fuselage and wings.

The first impact point consisted of several trees. The right wingtip was found near one of the trees. The angle of impact was estimated at 60° nose low on a magnetic heading of 358°. The ground impact point consisted of a small divot followed by the engine. The main wreckage consisted of the fuselage, empennage, and left wing. The right wing was displaced from the fuselage and came to rest on the right side of the debris area. All major airplane components were located at the accident site. The airplane was documented and transported to a secure facility for further examination.

At 1453, an automated weather reporting facility at KEVW reported wind from 340° at 13 knots, 1/4-mile visibility with snow and freezing fog, vertical visibility of 800 ft, temperature -27° F, dew point -27° F, and altimeter 29.47 inches.