Background
The pilot of a general aviation aircraft planned a flight originating in Iowa City, Iowa, to Creston, Iowa. Scattered thunderstorms were forecast, leading the pilot to delay departure by approximately three hours. After assessing weather conditions from several sources, the pilot departed for Creston around 9 p.m. local time.
Approach and Landing
The flight progressed without difficulty until reaching the Creston area. During the approach, the pilot reported difficulty maintaining visual reference with the runway, complaining that the VASI (Visual Approach Slope Indicator) lighting was inoperative. According to the airport manager, the VASI was indeed inoperative, and he had not notified the FAA of the problem. The pilot also indicated that fog or haze was present near the ground, making available landing references inadequate. Additionally, the pilot reported changing winds during the approach, which compounded the difficulty.
The pilot made no attempt to execute a go-around for another landing attempt; instead, the approach was continued. The aircraft impacted the ground short of the runway after the pilot reported hearing the stall warning horn sound both before and after he applied full power.
Post-Accident Information
The airport manager confirmed the VASI was inoperative and stated he had not reported the issue to the FAA. No further details about the aircraft, occupants, or injuries were provided in the source.