Aircraft Undershot Runway During IFR Approach

Casualties unknown • Kotzebue, AK, US

An aircraft impacted the ground during an ILS approach to runway 8 while operating in low visibility and blowing snow.

What happened

During an instrument flight rules (IFR) approach to the airport, the aircraft was cleared for the ILD/DME approach to runway 8. The pilot executed the published procedure turn and successfully established the aircraft on the localizer and glide slope at approximately 5.5 miles DME.

As the descent continued, the pilot worked through the before-landing checklist. At approximately 5 miles DME, the pilot attempted to contact the Flight Service Station (FSS) to report being inbound at the final approach fix, but was briefly delayed by another aircraft transmitting on the frequency. The pilot subsequently contacted the FSS and reported a position of 4.5 miles DME.

Shortly after this radio communication, the aircraft made contact with the ground. The pilot's last remembered instrument scan indicated that the aircraft was established on the glide path and localizer at an altitude of 1,250 feet. At the time of the accident, the pilot reported visibility was approximately 100 yards with blowing snow.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1992-04-04 Piper PA-31-350 accident near Kotzebue, AK?

An aircraft impacted the ground during an ILS approach to runway 8 while operating in low visibility and blowing snow.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1992-04-04 involved a Piper PA-31-350, registration N3555C, operated by Frontier Flying Service, at Kotzebue, AK.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

PILOT FACTOR IN THAT THE PROPER GLIDEPATH AND ALTITUDE WAS NOT MAINTAINED. FACTORS TO THE ACCIDENT WERE: INATTENTIVENESS AND SNOW.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X14358. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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