Flight and Weather Information
The aircraft was fueled to capacity and departed Butler, Pennsylvania, at approximately 1652 Eastern Daylight Time. Before departure, the pilot was advised that the destination weather consisted of 1/4 mile visibility in fog, a 200-foot overcast ceiling, and wind from 350 degrees at 6 mph. The airport elevation was 1,148 feet.
Approach and Descent
The approach minimums for the VOR Runway 22 approach were a minimum descent altitude (MDA) of 1,500 feet, with a required ceiling of 400 feet and prevailing visibility of 3/4 mile. The pilot continued the approach and descended below these minimums.
Passenger Account
A passenger, who survived the accident, reported that the airport was covered with fog. The passenger observed the altimeter indicating 1,300 feet mean sea level (msl) and stated that the pilot then applied power and turned toward the north. The missed approach procedure called for climbing to 2,700 feet msl, then turning right direct to the VIH VOR/DME and holding.
Impact and Wreckage Inspection
The airplane struck trees and came to rest approximately 1/2 mile northwest of the airport. The crash site elevation was about 1,125 feet. Post-impact inspection of the wreckage revealed that full flaps had been selected and the landing gear was extended. Go-around flaps were set at 20 degrees. The three propeller blades exhibited chordwise gouges and scratches, and the tips showed forward twisting. No anomalies were found in the engine or airframe.