On April 11, 2003, a Beech A36 (registration N256PR) operated by Raymond Elam was involved in an aviation accident near Pomona, NJ. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to follow instrument approach procedures. Factors in the accident included the pilot's lack of recent instrument experience and the instrument weather conditions. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During a second ILS approach, a pilot failed to intercept the localizer and continued eastbound. The controller initiated a surveillance approach, but communications ceased. The aircraft's last radar position was 1.3 nm WNW of the runway at 300 feet. No mechanical issues were found.
Incident Details
A pilot made two attempts at an ILS approach. During the first approach, the controller provided multiple instructions to help the pilot intercept the localizer. The controller twice instructed the pilot to climb when the aircraft was below the glideslope. Repeated transmissions were made to obtain the pilot's acknowledgment of navigational instructions. During the second approach, the pilot passed through the localizer and continued eastbound. The controller then initiated a surveillance approach, providing step-down altitudes and headings. The pilot was cleared to land and asked to report the runway in sight. The pilot acknowledged the clearance, but no further transmissions were received. Radar data showed the last recorded position of the airplane was 1.3 nautical miles west-northwest of the runway at an altitude of 300 feet.
Pilot's Background
Interviews with the pilot's family and friends revealed that he had received his instrument rating through a week-long program within the past year. Since then, he had not accumulated much instrument flight time.
Aircraft Examination
Examination of the airplane revealed no mechanical malfunctions.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 11 Apr 2003 Beech A36 accident near Pomona, NJ?
During a second ILS approach, a pilot failed to intercept the localizer and continued eastbound. The controller initiated a surveillance approach, but communications ceased. The aircraft's last radar position was 1.3 nm WNW of the runway at 300 feet. No mechanical issues were found.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 11 Apr 2003 involved a Beech A36, registration N256PR, operated by Raymond Elam, at Pomona, NJ.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to follow instrument approach procedures. Factors in the accident included the pilot's lack of recent instrument experience and the instrument weather conditions.
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