On November 9, 1989, a Beech A36 (registration N951V) operated by Dynamation, Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Angola, IN. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: FAILURE OF THE PILOT TO FOLLOW IFR PROCEDURES AND MAINTAIN THE MINIMUM DESCENT ALTITUDE (MDA). FACTORS RELATED TO THE ACCIDENT WERE: DARKNESS AND ADVERSE WEATHER CONDITIONS. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
During an NDB approach to NGT, the pilot reported ADF reversal at minimums and entered clear air. He attempted to reestablish the course 3.9 mi from the airport but could not recall further. The aircraft descended and crashed in an open field. Ceiling at the airport was estimated below minimums. No preimpact malfunction was found.
Accident Overview
During arrival at NGT, the pilot was cleared for an NDB runway 5 approach. The NDB was located at the airport, just southwest of the runway. The pilot stated that he completed the NDB approach, which failed at minimums, and that he entered clear air almost immediately after the ADF reversal.
Approach and Maneuvering
The pilot reported making a 180-degree reversal (left turn) and maneuvering to reestablish on the NDB course approximately 3.9 miles from the airport. He stated that he could not recall anything beyond that point. The aircraft subsequently descended and crashed in an open field in that area.
Investigation Findings
The minimum descent altitude (MDA) for the approach was 1540 feet. The airport elevation was 995 feet. The airport manager estimated that the ceiling at the airport was below minimums. No preimpact malfunction of the aircraft or NDB was found.