Accident Overview
The flight initially attempted a VOR approach at the original destination but performed a missed approach upon reaching minimums. The pilot then diverted to Jacksonville (JAX) and received clearance for an ILS approach to Runway 7. The aircraft lacked glideslope and marker beacon receivers, yet according to air traffic control personnel, the pilot conveyed that the aircraft was equipped for a full ILS approach. No issues with the aircraft or its components were identified.
Approach Details
Standard crossing altitude at the outer marker for this approach is 1,900 feet. The flight crossed the outer marker at an altitude of 400 to 500 feet, significantly lower than expected. At a distance of about 4.5 nautical miles from the runway, the aircraft climbed to 900 feet. Subsequently, at approximately 3.5 nautical miles, it descended to 600 feet. Air traffic control notified the pilot of altitude deviations observed on radar. The pilot reported that he acquired the localizer, tracked it for a period, then lost it. While attempting to re-intercept the localizer, the aircraft struck trees approximately one nautical mile short of the runway threshold.
Pilot Experience and Aircraft Condition
The pilot's biennial flight review had expired two months before the accident. Examination of the pilot's logbook revealed no evidence of compliance with Federal Aviation Regulation 61.57, which requires recent instrument flight experience. There was no indication of any preexisting mechanical or system failures in the aircraft.