Accident Summary
An aircraft conducting a flight to Chadron via the Chadron VOR was involved in an accident approximately 11.9 miles south of the intended destination. The aircraft had been cleared to fly direct to the ACKMEIAF for an NDB runway 2 approach, but continued toward the VOR, which was in the same general direction but 11.9 miles south of the airport. The NDB was located at the airport, while the ACKMEIAF was defined as 9 miles southwest of the airport on a bearing of 227 degrees, intersecting the 356-degree radial of the VOR.
Flight Details
Approximately 3 to 4 miles southeast of the VOR, radar service was terminated and a frequency change was made. Subsequently, the aircraft struck trees on a ridge and crashed. Initial impact occurred in wings-level flight at approximately 4,480 feet on a direct route between the VOR and the ACKMEIAF.
Investigation Findings
Investigation revealed that after the frequency change, the aircraft continued to the VOR and then maneuvered as if the pilot was flying the NDB approach, but was using the VOR as the initial approach fix. Radar data showed that contact was lost after a procedure turn was made and the aircraft was outbound approximately 6 miles northeast of the VOR. The crash site was approximately 3 miles west-southwest of where radar contact was last recorded.
Weather Conditions
Weather at Chadron was reported as: 500-foot overcast ceiling, 1.5 miles visibility with light snow and fog.
No preimpact part failure or malfunction was found.