Accident Details
The pilot of a Cessna 182 was conducting an ILS approach in instrument meteorological conditions (IMC). The aircraft passed over the outer marker approximately 550 feet above the normal altitude and then initiated a descent of 1,200 feet over a period of 40 seconds. Following the descent, the airplane entered a left turn and completed more than 360 degrees of turn before descending into trees. The aircraft struck the ground with a left wing down attitude and in a steep bank.
Pilot Communication
During the approach, the local controller questioned the pilot about his heading. The pilot reported headings that matched his radar track. However, the pilot's responses to the controller's questions were sometimes delayed or incomplete. When instructed to execute a missed approach, the pilot stated that he did not know what heading to fly.
Equipment and Examination
Examination of one navigation radio found it set to the ILS frequency. No information was obtained from the other radio due to impact damage. Investigators found no evidence of mechanical failure or malfunction with the engine or airframe. A witness who initially located the airplane reported a strong smell of fuel at the accident site.
Pilot Background
An FAA inspector who administered the pilot's last flight review and instrument competency check, conducted 13 months prior to the accident, reported that the pilot was adequate for his rating and level of experience, and was familiar with the airplane. No information was available regarding the pilot's recency of experience or instrument experience after that flight check.