On February 17, 1984, a Piper PA-31 (registration N7415L) was involved in an aviation accident near Brownsville, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain terrain clearance during an instrument approach due to distraction by a swinging course deviation indicator, which resulted in him descending below the glide slope and initiating a missed approach too late. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
A pilot attempting an instrument landing system approach collided with the terrain while maneuvering. The pilot reported being distracted by a fluctuating course deviation indicator and descending below the glide path before initiating a late go-around.
What happened
The aircraft was engaged in a maneuver to align for an instrument landing system (ILS) approach when it collided with the ground. The pilot later explained that his attention was diverted by a swinging course deviation indicator (CDI). This distraction contributed to him descending below the established glide slope.
Recognizing the situation, the pilot attempted to execute a missed approach by adding power. However, the aircraft impacted the terrain before a successful recovery could be achieved. A passenger on board reported hearing no change in engine sounds during the final phase of the approach, indicating the engine was likely operating normally until impact.
The investigation
Post-accident analysis focused on the pilot's account and the passenger's testimony regarding engine performance. The pilot acknowledged that he should have initiated the missed approach procedure sooner than he did.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain terrain clearance during an instrument approach due to distraction by a swinging course deviation indicator, which resulted in him descending below the glide slope and initiating a missed approach too late.
What happened in the 17 Feb 1984 Piper PA-31 accident near Brownsville, TX?
A pilot attempting an instrument landing system approach collided with the terrain while maneuvering. The pilot reported being distracted by a fluctuating course deviation indicator and descending below the glide path before initiating a late go-around.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 17 Feb 1984 involved a Piper PA-31, registration N7415L, at Brownsville, TX.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to maintain terrain clearance during an instrument approach due to distraction by a swinging course deviation indicator, which resulted in him descending below the glide slope and initiating a missed approach too late.
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