Incident Summary
A pilot conducted multiple instrument approaches to Fulton County Airport under poor weather conditions but was unable to land due to low ceilings. After being advised of the possibility of attempting an approach at DeKalb-Peachtree Airport (PDK), where other aircraft had successfully landed, the pilot chose to attempt another approach at Fulton County. During the fifth approach, the pilot reported an unspecified loss of engine power. The airplane subsequently stalled, crashed, and burned short of runway 8.
Weather Conditions
Weather conditions in the Atlanta area were poor at the time of the accident. According to approach control, other airplanes had landed at DeKalb-Peachtree Airport (PDK) despite the conditions. The accident occurred on a dark night under instrument meteorological conditions.
Sequence of Events
The pilot had completed four instrument procedures to Fulton County Airport without landing because of low ceilings. Approach control informed the pilot of the possibility of attempting an approach into PDK, but the pilot elected to execute another approach into Fulton County. During the fifth approach, the pilot reported an unspecified loss of engine power. The airplane then stalled, crashed, and burned short of runway 8.
Investigation Findings
Examination of the wreckage failed to indicate any mechanical problem. The investigation did not identify a specific cause for the reported loss of engine power.