Background
The pilot, who held an instrument rating and a commercial certificate, was conducting a positioning flight. Before departure, he received a weather briefing that included an AIRMET for instrument flight rules (IFR) conditions. The briefing reported calm winds, visibility of 1/4 mile, fog, low ceilings, and matching temperature and dew points.
Flight Details
The flight departed from the airport. Air traffic control (ATC) provided radar vectors to the initial approach fix (IAF) for a localizer approach. The pilot was cleared for the approach and given the altimeter setting. The IAF was located 5.0 nautical miles from the runway threshold. The minimum decision altitude for the approach was 1,600 feet (503 feet above ground level), with a minimum approach visibility of 1 mile.
Accident Sequence
During the approach, the controller noted static on the radio frequency and a power fluctuation at the facility. The power company later recorded a power fault at that time. Radio contact could not be reestablished with the pilot. The airplane subsequently struck power lines at a height of 38 feet 6 inches above ground level and then impacted the terrain short of the runway. Power line cables were found entangled about the fuselage and the horizontal stabilizer.
Post-Accident Examination
Following the accident, the localizer approach was flight checked by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and found to be satisfactory. The runway end identifier lights (REILs) were inoperative. Flight control continuity was confirmed. The cockpit approach receivers, indicators, and communication equipment were checked, and no anomalies were noted that would have affected the approach. No anomalies were found with the vacuum pumps, airframe, or engine that would have precluded operation prior to the accident.