Accident Overview
A pilot on an instrument landing system (ILS) approach reported encountering a downdraft that caused the aircraft to bank left and pitch down. The pilot's last recalled altitude before the downdraft was 750 feet. Subsequently, the aircraft collided with trees and crashed.
Weather Conditions
At the time of the approach, the reported weather included an overcast ceiling at 600 feet, visibility of 7 miles, and wind from 010 degrees at 6 knots. Approximately 33 minutes after the accident, weather at 0057 CST was recorded as 100 feet obscured, visibility 3/4 mile with fog, and calm winds. The crash site elevation was about 200 feet MSL, while the airport elevation was 215 feet.
Passenger Account
A passenger occupying a rear seat reported that the aircraft was in clouds, then emerged into clear conditions with just enough time to see the trees before impact.
Investigation Findings
An investigation did not reveal any preimpact malfunction or failure of the airframe or powerplant.