Incident Overview
A pilot conducting a visual approach to Runway 20 at Central Illinois Regional Airport (BMI) experienced an unexpected descent during the final segment of the approach, resulting in the aircraft colliding with the ground short of the runway. The pilot stated that conditions were normal until the aircraft was on short final, at which point the descent began.
Pilot Account
The pilot reported that he did not know the cause of the accident but speculated that a downdraft might have forced the aircraft toward the ground. He added that he applied power to arrest the descent, but the event occurred very rapidly, leaving insufficient time to prevent the impact.
Aircraft Examination
A post-accident examination of the airplane revealed no anomalies. The aircraft was inspected for any mechanical or structural issues that could have contributed to the event, but none were found.
Weather Conditions
The weather recorded at BMI three minutes after the accident indicated clear skies, 10 miles visibility, wind from 220 degrees at 15 knots, and an altimeter setting of 30.11 inches of Mercury. The reported wind direction was consistent with the approach runway in use.
Conclusion
No official probable cause has been determined. The pilot's suspicion of a downdraft remains a possibility, but no conclusive evidence has been established.