Incident Summary
A multi-engine airplane was being flown by the pilot-in-command (PIC) on a practice instrument approach using a VOR. The aircraft was within 5 nautical miles of the airport when the PIC maneuvered into a descending left turn to remain on course. Within two to three seconds, the airplane entered a steep descent. The PIC then became unconscious and subsequently died.
Sequence of Events
A pilot-rated passenger, who held a rating for single-engine aircraft and had logged approximately 600 flight hours, was seated in the rear of the airplane. Upon recognizing the emergency, the passenger took control of the aircraft. The passenger contacted personnel at the airport over the Unicom frequency, requesting that emergency personnel be notified and that a multi-engine rated pilot assist with landing procedures.
Post-Landing
With assistance from an airline pilot via radio communication, the pilot-rated passenger successfully landed the airplane without further incident. Emergency medical personnel met the aircraft upon landing.
Medical Findings
An autopsy revealed that the PIC, who held a valid third-class medical certificate, died of a heart attack.