What happened
The pilot was conducting an instrument landing system approach to runway 18 when the aircraft collided with trees located approximately three miles from the approach end of the runway. The impact occurred at an altitude roughly equivalent to the airport elevation.
During post-accident interviews, the pilot explained that dense fog conditions prompted him to look outside in search of visual references for the airport. Upon returning his attention to the instrument panel, he realized the aircraft had descended below the safe flight path. He attempted to add power to recover, but the aircraft was already in contact with the trees.
The investigation
The investigation focused on the pilot's account and the physical evidence of the impact site. No mechanical failures were identified as contributing factors. The primary issue was the loss of situational awareness during the approach phase.
Findings
The accident was caused by the pilot's failure to maintain terrain clearance while flying in instrument meteorological conditions. Specifically, the pilot became fixated on external visual cues that were obscured by fog, leading to an inadvertent descent below the minimum safe altitude. The inability to see the runway environment resulted in a controlled flight into terrain event.
Safety message
Pilots must rely on flight instruments rather than external visual references when flying in conditions where visibility is limited. Relying on partial visual cues can lead to spatial disorientation and loss of control.