Casualties unknown

2003-12-05: Beech B200 (N85BK) — Southeastern Air Charter — Morlan, GA

Morlan, GA, US

On December 5, 2003, a Beech B200 (registration N85BK) operated by Southeastern Air Charter was involved in an aviation accident near Morlan, GA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's inadequate in-flight planning/decision when he continued the flight below the decision height and collided with trees. A related factor was the low ceiling. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 9 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 1781061362Data APIEditorial standards

A Beech 200 operated by Southeastern Air Charter, Inc. struck trees and terrain one mile south of Runway 32 while on a localizer approach in low visibility and low ceiling conditions. The pilot had not been checked in the aircraft type per operational specifications.

Approach and Collision

Upon arrival at the destination airport, air traffic control cleared the flight for the localizer 32 approach. The controller informed the pilot that radar service was terminated and a frequency change was approved, with instructions to report canceling IFR on the new frequency. The pilot acknowledged the clearance.

Radar data later reviewed indicated that the airplane was on course and aligned with the runway when it collided with trees and the ground approximately one mile south of Runway 32.

Operator and Pilot Records

The accident airplane was operated by Southeastern Air Charter, Inc. A review of company records showed that the pilot's most recent Airman Competency/Proficiency Check had been conducted in a Cessna 210. No records were found indicating that the pilot had undergone a flight-check in the Beech 200, as required by the Corporation's FAA-Approved Operational Specifications.

Airframe and Engine Examination

Examination of the airframe and engines revealed no pre-existing discrepancies that would have prevented the airplane from operating properly before impact.

Weather Conditions

Surface weather observations taken near the time of the accident reported visibility of 1 to 1¼ miles and a ceiling of 200 feet overcast.

Approach Minimums

A review of the approach plate for the localizer 32 approach indicated a minimum descent altitude of 325 feet above ground level (AGL) and a visibility minimum of 1 mile.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20031209X02012. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.