Aircraft crash during second approach attempt near Memphis

Casualties unknown • Olive Branch, MS, US

An aircraft crashed into trees and ground after a pilot attempted a second localizer/DME approach following an initial missed approach.

What happened

While performing a localizer/DME approach, the pilot initiated a missed approach prior to reaching the missed approach point. The pilot then notified air traffic control of the desire to attempt the approach a second time.

The aircraft was cleared for the second localizer/DME approach. During this maneuver, the airplane maintained an altitude of 2,400 feet MSL for 1.3 miles past the Final Approach Fix (FAF). Upon reaching the missed approach point, the aircraft descended to 1,400 feet. The descent continued until the aircraft was lost from radar contact .8 nautical mile past the departure end of the runway. The impact with trees and the ground caused both wings to separate from the wreckage.

Weather conditions recorded three minutes before the accident at Memphis International Airport, located 10.9 nautical miles from the site, included an overcast ceiling of 300 feet and visibility of 4 statute miles in mist.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1998-11-15 Piper PA-32R-301 accident near Olive Branch, MS?

An aircraft crashed into trees and ground after a pilot attempted a second localizer/DME approach following an initial missed approach.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1998-11-15 involved a Piper PA-32R-301, registration N83396, at Olive Branch, MS.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to follow IFR procedures when he descended below the published minimum descent altitude.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001211X11473. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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