Aircraft collision with tree during missed approach

Casualties unknown • Monroe, NC, US

A pilot executing a missed approach following an ILS approach collided with a tree after failing to establish visual contact with the runway.

What happened

While performing an ILS approach, the pilot approached the decision height of 306 feet above the ground. Although ground lights were observed, the pilot was unable to establish visual contact with runway 5. Due to the inability to identify the runway, the pilot initiated a missed approach.

During the subsequent climbout, the aircraft collided with a tree measuring 75 feet in height. The collision occurred approximately 2000 feet from the approach end of the runway. Following the impact, the pilot diverted to a different airport and landed without further incident. The occupants were not injured.

At the time of the event, there was no approved weather reporting facility available at the airport.

Probable cause

The pilot's decision to conduct an instrument approach to an airport lacking an approved weather reporting facility, in violation of 14 CFR Part 135.225.

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Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1995-12-19 Piper PA-32-300 accident near Monroe, NC?

A pilot executing a missed approach following an ILS approach collided with a tree after failing to establish visual contact with the runway.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1995-12-19 involved a Piper PA-32-300, registration N4219T, at Monroe, NC.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's decision to conduct an instrument approach to an airport lacking an approved weather reporting facility, in violation of 14 CFR Part 135.225.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001207X04951. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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