On October 10, 1996, a Globe GC-1B (registration N3228K) was involved in an aviation accident near Caldwell, ID. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain visual reference with the runway environment due to sun glare, which resulted in a collision with terrain and an obstacle. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot conducting a visual flight rules approach to a private airport collided with a fence and terrain approximately one-quarter mile from the runway threshold, resulting in fatal injuries.
What happened
The pilot was operating under visual flight rules (VFR) while making an approach toward a private airport. The aircraft was flying on an easterly heading during this final segment of the flight. Approximately one-quarter mile from the approach end of the runway, the aircraft impacted a fence and the surrounding terrain.
The investigation
A mechanical examination of the aircraft was conducted following the accident. This inspection did not reveal any evidence of pre-impact mechanical failures or malfunctions that would have contributed to the collision.
Findings
The pilot sustained fatal injuries in the accident. Prior to passing away, the pilot communicated a single observation regarding the circumstances of the crash to his son. He stated that the sun was in his eyes, suggesting that glare may have impaired his vision during the critical phase of the approach.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain visual reference with the runway environment due to sun glare, which resulted in a collision with terrain and an obstacle.