What happened
The pilot had been consuming alcohol for an unknown duration prior to initiating a night flight. Following takeoff, the aircraft was observed maneuvering erratically within the local airspace. The flight ended when the aircraft impacted the ground approximately 0.6 miles short of Runway 16. The collision occurred at the base of a snow-covered gravel bank.
The investigation
A post-accident blood test revealed that the pilot had a blood alcohol concentration of 0.240%. Records indicated that the pilot did not possess a valid medical certificate at the time of the flight. He had previously been denied flying privileges by the regional FAA Flight Surgeon due to a diagnosis of alcoholism.
Findings
The erratic flight behavior observed after takeoff was consistent with the effects of alcohol impairment. The pilot's failure to maintain a valid medical certificate and his known history of alcoholism contributed significantly to the accident. The impact location suggests a loss of control or inability to complete the approach due to physiological impairment.
Safety message
This accident underscores the critical importance of adhering to medical certification requirements and abstaining from alcohol before flight operations. Pilots with known health conditions that may affect flight safety must comply with regulatory restrictions to prevent endangering themselves and others.