IFR Cross-Country Flight Ends in Swampy Terrain (N8389D)

Flight Plan and Approach Requested Priority Handling A non-instrument rated solo private pilot filed an IFR cross-country flight plan for a route along coastal terrain. While en route, the pilot contacted the terminal radar approach control (TRACON) specialist and requested an amendment to the IFR flight plan to make an unplanned fuel stop. The aircraft was given priority handling over other arriving aircraft and cleared for an instrument landing system (ILS) approach to runway 17. ## Loss of Control and Radar Contact A review of air-to-ground communications tapes, transcripts, and archived radar data indicated that the pilot was unable to intercept the glide slope and localizer for the ILS approach to runway 17. The pilot also failed to maintain an assigned altitude or heading. As the TRACON specialist attempted to sequence the pilot for a third attempt at the ILS approach, the pilot stated, in part, “I can't, I can't...I've lost it....” No further radio contact was received, and the aircraft disappeared from the radar screen. ## Wreckage Location and Weather Conditions Search crews located the wreckage approximately 14 miles north-northwest of the airport in swampy, tree-covered terrain. The aircraft was destroyed by impact forces, and no preaccident mechanical anomalies were discovered during the investigation. At the time of the accident, the reported weather included a wind from 090 degrees true at 10 knots, visibility of 3/4 statute miles in mist, a 100-foot overcast ceiling, a temperature of 55 degrees Fahrenheit, a dew point of 55 degrees Fahrenheit, and an altimeter setting of 29.98 inHg.