Sequence of Events
At 2234, the pilot was issued a vector to the initial approach fix for the ILS runway 9 approach. The controller also provided weather information: "Stewart weather thirty minutes ago is estimated one thousand overcast six miles in light rain and haze." At 2238, the pilot was advised to expect a 25-30 minute delay and was cleared to hold.
At 2306, the pilot of a Boeing 727 landing on runway 9 reported breaking out at 400 feet. At 2308, the pilot was cleared for the approach and responded affirmatively when asked if he had current weather information.
The aircraft crashed approximately 5,000 feet from the approach end and an estimated 1,500 feet right of the extended centerline of runway 9.
Pilot Background
On July 2, 1981, the pilot failed his initial ATP flight examination due to unsatisfactory ILS approaches. On January 21, 1982, during a 135 check, the pilot's ILS approach was described as "very unsatisfactory." As a consequence, the pilot was disapproved for operation under IFR.