What happened
A noninstrument-rated pilot and a Certified Flight Instructor (CFII) were conducting a localizer instrument approach when the aircraft descended below the minimum descent altitude. The aircraft, which was not equipped with a Distance Measuring Equipment (DME), had previously requested and received confirmation from approach control regarding their position over the final approach fix.
During the descent, the aircraft struck a telephone pole and an apartment building approximately one mile short of the runway. At the time of the accident, weather conditions were characterized by fog with visibility of 1/4 mile and an indefinite ceiling of 100 feet. The impact resulted in one fatality on the ground.
Findings
The investigation noted that the CFII, who was a paraplegic, required specialized rudder controls to operate the aircraft; however, the aircraft involved was not equipped with these necessary controls.