Incident Details
An aircraft on a repositioning flight for an air taxi operation was involved in an accident during arrival at Saratoga County Airport. The pilot-in-command (PIC) occupied the right seat, while the second-in-command (SIC) was flying from the left seat.
Flight Sequence
The aircrew received clearance for the VOR-A approach. Upon reaching the GILLA intersection and beginning the outbound leg, thunderstorm activity was observed on the procedure turn (south) side of the radial. Consequently, they elected to execute a course reversal on the north side. Due to moderate to heavy turbulence, the PIC became distracted and was uncertain whether the correct inbound heading had been set. After intercepting what they believed was the proper inbound radial, a descent was initiated. Shortly after breaking out of clouds at an altitude between 1,800 and 1,900 feet, the aircraft collided with trees.
Post-Accident Actions
Following the tree strike, the crew executed a missed approach and diverted to another airport. During landing at that airport, the nose gear collapsed. After the accident, the crew reported being unsure whether the DME was tuned to Albany or Cambridge.