Approach and Communication
The pilot requested and received approval for a GPS approach. An altimeter setting was issued, but the pilot did not acknowledge it.
Radar Data and Flight Path
Radar data showed that the airplane passed approximately 1 mile to the right of an intermediate approach fix and was nearing the abeam position about 1/2 mile to the right of the final approach fix. At both positions, the airplane was about 300 feet below the minimum segment altitude.
Loss of Radar Contact
After passing the final approach fix, the controller advised the pilot that radar contact was lost. The pilot acknowledged the transmission, but no further transmissions were received.
Impact
The airplane impacted a tower slightly left of the approach course centerline, at an elevation of about 1,350 feet. The minimum descent altitude along that approach segment was 1,800 feet.
Altimeter Setting
The setting found on the altimeter would have placed the airplane about 100 feet lower than it should have been.
Witness Observation
A witness stated that minutes after the accident, he looked up at the tower to check for damage and saw that the top of it was "just in the bottom of the clouds."
Aircraft Equipment
The airplane was certified for IFR operation; however, it was not equipped with an IFR-certified GPS receiver. A personal, hand-held computer with an antenna and integrated GPS receiver was found at the accident site.
Software Warning
The software vendor had posted a warning on its website which stated, "The system is not tested or approved by the FAA or any governmental agency and should not be used as a primary flight instrument."