Flight History
A pilot operating under visual flight rules (VFR) departed and later encountered instrument meteorological conditions (IMC) near the destination. The pilot then requested an instrument flight rules (IFR) clearance for a VOR-DME approach. Air traffic control informed the pilot to expect a delay due to another aircraft executing a missed approach.
Weather and Approach
The pilot was advised of weather conditions: indefinite ceiling 200 feet, visibility 1/4 mile. A visibility of 1 mile was required for a straight-in landing. The pilot accepted the approach clearance and initiated a descent. During the approach, the aircraft descended 1,200 feet below the prescribed approach profile and subsequently collided with trees.
Post-Accident Findings
Post-accident investigation revealed that the pilot was very familiar with the terrain and was knowledgeable of ranch airstrips in the area. The pilot had previously landed at these airstrips to wait out weather at the same destination airport. The course being flown by the pilot would have taken him directly to one of these ranches.