Accident Summary
A pilot conducting a night instrument flight rules (IFR) flight experienced an accident while attempting an ILS approach to the destination airport. The flight had been uneventful during takeoff, climb, and cruise. Prior to departure, the pilot received a weather briefing that included advisories for thunderstorms.
Approach and Descent
As the flight approached the destination airport, air traffic control informed the pilot that the control tower was closing and that an airplane ahead had landed successfully. The pilot was provided current weather conditions at the airport: scattered clouds at 200 feet and visibility of 2 miles. After being cleared for the ILS approach, the airplane intercepted the localizer course and crossed the final approach fix at an altitude of 2,700 feet. Radar coverage was lost when the airplane descended to about 1,900 feet.
Witness Accounts
Witnesses on the ground reported seeing the airplane flying at low altitude, near a thunderstorm and in fog. They observed the airplane's engine revving to high power as it descended into trees approximately half a mile short of the runway and 1,000 feet to the right of the extended centerline.
Weather and Mechanical Examination
Weather reports confirmed the presence of precipitation and lightning near the destination airport around the time of the accident. A post-accident examination of the airplane found no evidence of pre-impact mechanical malfunctions.
Findings
The sequence of events includes a night ILS approach in adverse weather conditions, a descent below radar coverage, and a collision with trees short of the runway. No pre-existing mechanical issues were identified.