Aircraft Undershoots Runway 14 During ILS Approach

Casualties unknown • Conroe, TX, US

An aircraft crashed approximately half a mile short of the runway centerline during an instrument approach in heavy fog.

What happened

The aircraft was cleared for an ILS RWY 14 approach under challenging weather conditions. At the time of the flight, visibility was reported as 1/2 mile in fog, with a ceiling of 100 feet obscured.

Prior to arrival, the flight crew contacted the Fixed Base Operator (FBO) to inquire about current field conditions. Approximately 15 to 20 minutes after this communication, the aircraft was observed flying over the field before executing a right turn. The wreckage was subsequently located approximately 1/2 mile short and 1/4 mile left of the extended centerline of Runway 14.

Witnesses located in the FBO office noted that they did not hear the characteristic radio 'clicks' that typically occur when a pilot activates the approach lighting system. This was the pilot's first flight into this specific airport, and the pilot was seated in the right seat of the aircraft.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1995-02-10 Piper PA-32R-300 accident near Conroe, TX?

An aircraft crashed approximately half a mile short of the runway centerline during an instrument approach in heavy fog.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1995-02-10 involved a Piper PA-32R-300, registration N5373F, at Conroe, TX.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO FOLLOW PUBLISHED IFR PROCEDURES. FACTORS WERE THE WEATHER CONDITIONS, THE DARK NIGHT, AND THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO ACTIVATE THE APPROACH LIGHTING SYSTEM.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001207X02953. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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