On March 17, 1984, a Cessna 340 (registration N8482N) was involved in an aviation accident near Norwood, MA. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During an instrument approach, the pilot descended to MDA with the radar altimeter set to 415 ft. The radar altimeter sounded after the passenger saw approach lights. The pilot visually acquired the runway but suddenly saw a tree, struck it, and crash landed on a muddy service road.
Event Description
The pilot reported that during an instrument approach, he descended to the minimum descent altitude (MDA) with the radar altimeter set to 415 feet. The passenger seated in the right front seat, who was also a pilot, advised that he observed the approach lights. Approximately one to two seconds later, the radar altimeter sounded.
Sequence of Events
The pilot visually acquired the approach lights and runway end lights and continued the approach. He stated that everything appeared normal until he suddenly saw a tree ahead. The pilot attempted to avoid the tree, but the aircraft struck it and subsequently crash landed on a muddy service road.
The aircraft came to rest on the service road after the collision with the tree. No further details were provided regarding the extent of damage or injuries.