Flight Details
The pilot, a private certificate holder, initiated a night departure without obtaining a weather briefing or filing a flight plan. Weather at the destination, approximately 30 miles away, included low ceilings and fog. Immediately after takeoff, the pilot requested an instrument flight rules (IFR) clearance and was subsequently vectored for an instrument landing system (ILS) approach.
Communications
While en route, the controller asked the pilot about his altitude. Before turning onto the final approach course, the pilot requested the ILS frequency for the destination. After switching to the tower frequency, the controller informed the pilot that the airplane was east of the final approach course, and the pilot agreed. No further communication occurred until the pilot announced that he was executing a missed approach procedure.
Radar Track and Impact
Radar data showed the airplane turning eastward, with the last recorded position on a northeast heading at 600 feet mean sea level (MSL). The airplane subsequently impacted the ground on a westerly heading.
Wreckage Examination
Examination of the maintenance logbooks revealed that the pitot-static system had not been tested within the previous 24 months. However, inspection of the wreckage did not disclose any mechanical problems with the airframe or engine.