"James Robinson" wrote in message
. ..
Pilot reported heavy downdraft over Lancaster, CA, resulting in crash.

http://www.orovillemr.com/news/chico/ci_4917367

Can somebody explain what he did right/wrong?

Wrong? Probably had never taken a mountain flying course. I'll bet there
were high winds involved. The strong downdraft was predictable, and
possibly avoidable.
--
Jim in NC