Weather and Approach
Weather reported at the destination airport included 1-3/4 statute miles visibility, light snow, mist, an overcast ceiling at 200 feet, temperature 34°F, and dew point 32°F. The pilot performed an ILS procedure toward the runway.
Communications
An airport employee received a radio transmission from the accident airplane requesting the current altimeter setting and provided it. Moments later, the employee heard the airplane report being on a 4-mile final for the ILS approach. No further transmissions were received.
Accident Location
The airplane came to rest in a wooded area approximately 3/4 mile from the runway threshold and about 300 feet right of the extended centerline.
Approach Plate Information
Review of the ILS approach plate revealed: the minimum glide slope intercept altitude at the beginning of the final approach segment was 4,300 feet msl; the glide slope altitude at the final approach fix (about 4 miles from the runway) was 3,619 feet msl; and the glide slope altitude at the middle marker (about 0.4 miles from the runway) was 1,853 feet msl. The airport elevation was 1,663 feet msl.
GPS Data
Recovered GPS data showed that about 1.75 miles from the runway, the airplane turned left of the final approach course. When approximately 1/2 mile left of course, it began a right turn back toward the final approach course. The last GPS data point was recorded about 5,073 feet from the runway threshold along the final approach course at an altitude of 1,765 feet msl.
Pilot Experience
Review of the pilot's logbook revealed time spans exceeding 6 months during which the pilot did not record 6 instrument approaches or IFR holding procedures. The pilot's last recorded instrument flight proficiency flight was dated October 26, 1996. Federal Aviation Regulations Part 61.57 stipulate that a person may not act as pilot in command under IFR or in weather conditions less than VFR minimums unless, within the preceding 6 calendar months, they have performed and logged at least six instrument approaches, holding procedures, and intercepting and tracking courses using navigation systems. Those who do not meet the instrument experience requirements within the prescribed time may not serve as pilot in command under IFR or in sub-VFR weather until they pass an instrument proficiency check.