Aircraft Crash During Go-Around Attempt in Low Visibility

Casualties unknown • Nantucket, MA, US

An aircraft crashed during a missed approach attempt following a diversion due to heavy fog and extremely low visibility.

What happened

The pilot-in-command and the co-pilot initially diverted to an alternate airport because of low visibility at their intended destination. After deplaning the passengers, the crew decided to proceed to the original destination.

Upon arrival, the pilot attempted an ILS approach but was unable to land due to poor visibility. A second approach was initiated. During this second attempt, the pilot reported seeing the runway environment; however, he elected to perform a go-around because he felt something was incorrect with the aircraft's state. Simultaneously, the co-pilot reported feeling disoriented and confused, prompting him to call for the go-around. Immediately following the decision to go around, the airplane struck the ground.

At the time of the accident, weather conditions were characterized by fog with a measured visibility of 1/4 mile and a ceiling of 100 feet obscured. The temperature and dew point were both 65 degrees, and winds were from 180 degrees at 6 knots. Rescue personnel encountered significant difficulty locating the wreckage because visibility at the crash site was estimated to be less than 25 feet.

Findings

The crew experienced spatial disorientation and confusion during the approach phase. While the pilot had visual contact with the runway environment, the decision to execute a go-around coincided with the aircraft impacting the terrain.

Probable cause

The aircraft struck the ground immediately following a decision to execute a go-around during an ILS approach in low visibility conditions.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1997-09-19 Cessna 402C accident near Nantucket, MA?

An aircraft crashed during a missed approach attempt following a diversion due to heavy fog and extremely low visibility.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1997-09-19 involved a Cessna 402C, registration N6879Y, operated by Ocean Wings Inc, at Nantucket, MA.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft struck the ground immediately following a decision to execute a go-around during an ILS approach in low visibility conditions.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001208X08914. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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