Accident Details
The pilot, who held an instrument rating and had 184 total flight hours, was executing the LDA/DME RWY 34 instrument approach in actual instrument meteorological conditions. The airplane struck trees approximately six miles south of the runway threshold.
Pilot Report
During post-accident interviews, the pilot stated that upon crossing the AWEMO intersection, which serves as the final approach fix, the airplane was at 3,100 feet mean sea level (msl). Believing this altitude to be high, the pilot continued descending toward the next intersection, TRIUM. The pilot reported crossing TRIUM at 2,600 feet msl, again considering that too high. He contemplated increasing the descent rate but impacted trees before making further adjustments.
Radar Analysis
Examination of radar data revealed that the airplane never stabilized on the approach. The flight path had descended below the published minimum crossing altitudes for both intersections. Additionally, the radar track indicated that the airplane never reached the TRIUM intersection prior to impact. According to the approach plate, the required minimum altitude at AWEMO is 4,000 feet msl, and at TRIUM it is 3,000 feet msl.
Aircraft Examination
A post-accident inspection of the airframe and engine disclosed no mechanical deficiencies that would have contributed to the event. The airplane performed normally and did not exhibit any pre-impact anomalies.