Accident Details
On arrival, the pilot was advised that the weather at 1745 CST was 500 feet broken, 1000 feet overcast, visibility 3-1/2 miles with fog. The pilot conducted an ILS approach to runway 31. At 1928 CST, he reported a missed approach, stating that he had seen the lights and requested another approach. The aircraft was then vectored for a second ILS approach.
When the aircraft was about 5 miles from the outer marker (final approach fix), the pilot was cleared for the approach and instructed to change to an advisory frequency. However, about 3 miles southeast of the outer marker, while still on a westerly heading, the aircraft flew into level terrain. The minimum descent altitude (MDA) for this segment of the approach was 2700 feet MSL; the airport elevation was 1116 feet.
Weather Conditions
The weather at 1945 CST had deteriorated to 200 feet overcast and 1/4 mile visibility with fog. This worsening weather likely affected the pilot's ability to maintain visual contact with the ground during the approach.
Investigation
No preimpact part failure or malfunction of the airframe or engines was found. The investigation focused on the flight path and weather conditions, but no probable cause was stated in the official report.