What happened
The pilot elected to attempt a localizer runway 17 approach at Olathe Municipal Airport, disregarding forecasts of zero visibility and zero ceiling conditions. During the descent, the pilot recalled bracketing the localizer signal and observing an altitude of 1,600 feet on the altimeter before losing consciousness or awareness of the event.
The aircraft struck two trees at an altitude of 12 feet above ground level while banked 30 degrees to the right. The impact caused the aircraft to execute a flat 360-degree pirouette to the right, tearing off the left wing before striking the ground and sliding approximately 600 feet. A fire originated in the right wing fuel tank but extinguished itself without external intervention.
The pilot survived the crash and remained conscious inside the wreckage, managing injuries and attempting to stay warm until rescue arrived.
The investigation
Post-accident examination confirmed the aircraft was significantly left of the localizer course at the moment of initial impact. An operational flight test conducted by the FAA verified that the localizer signal was within acceptable limits. Additionally, leak checks of the aircraft's static system and bench checks of both altimeters yielded satisfactory results.
Findings
The pilot attempted an instrument approach in weather conditions below minimums. The aircraft impacted terrain while off-course during the final phase of the approach.