On June 18, 1994, a Mooney M20C (registration N6679U) operated by Kimbrough, Edward W. was involved in an aviation accident near Leesburg, VA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO MAINTAIN THE MINIMUM DESCENT ALTITUDE UNTIL THE PUBLISHED APPROACH FIX. FACTORS RELATED TO THE ACCIDENT WAS PILOT FATIGUE, LOW CEILINGS, OBSCURATION, AND FOG. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During a night non-precision instrument approach, an airplane struck trees after passing the middle marker. The pilot reported descending below MDA prematurely and cited fatigue as impairing judgment. No mechanical malfunctions were reported.
Accident Narrative
The accident occurred while a pilot attempted a non-precision instrument landing at night. After passing the middle marker, the airplane impacted trees. The reported weather included a ceiling of 700 feet and visibility of 1/2 mile in fog. The pilot stated that he descended below the minimum descent altitude prematurely. He also stated that his judgment was impaired due to fatigue. No mechanical malfunctions were reported.
Pilot Statement
The pilot indicated that he descended below the minimum descent altitude prematurely. He further explained that his judgment was impaired due to fatigue. The approach was conducted at night in conditions of low ceiling and fog.
Weather Conditions
Meteorological reports indicated a ceiling of 700 feet and visibility of 1/2 mile in fog. These conditions prevailed at the time of the accident.
Mechanical Findings
Examination of the airplane revealed no mechanical malfunctions.