What happened
The aircraft was conducting a runway 14 Instrument Landing System (ILS) approach to Republic Airport in Farmingdale, New York. During the final phase of the approach, the pilot instructed his passenger, who held a private pilot certificate, to report when the approach lights were visible. The pilot continued the descent until reaching an altitude of 300 feet, at which point the glide slope flag appeared on the instrument panel. Recognizing that the decision height for this specific approach is 329 feet, the pilot initiated a missed approach procedure. However, before the aircraft could climb out safely, it collided with trees located within Bethpage State Park.
The investigation
The National Transportation Safety Board examined the flight data and witness statements to determine the sequence of events leading to the impact. Investigators noted that the aircraft had descended below the published decision height for the ILS approach. The appearance of the glide slope flag indicated a loss of vertical guidance, prompting the pilot's attempt to execute a missed approach. Despite the timely initiation of the go-around, the aircraft was already too low to clear the terrain obstacles in the approach path.
Findings
The primary factor contributing to this accident was the descent below decision height without adequate visual reference. The pilot continued the approach beyond the authorized minimum altitude while relying on a passenger to identify visual cues that were not yet available or reliable. The failure to maintain safe terrain clearance during the instrument approach resulted in the collision with the trees.
Safety message
Pilots must strictly adhere to published decision heights and missed approach procedures. Continuing an approach below decision height without the required visual references is extremely hazardous. Pilots should ensure that the aircraft is stabilized and that all necessary visual cues are acquired before descending below minimums.