Accident Overview
During a night non-precision instrument approach, the airplane collided with trees and terrain near the approach end of the landing runway. Air traffic control (ATC) communications transcripts and recorded radar data showed that the aircraft was cleared for a non-directional radio beacon (NDB) approach approximately 10 minutes prior to the accident. Shortly after receiving the clearance, the pilot transmitted a position report, stating the aircraft was procedure turn inbound.
Loss of Contact
Shortly after the pilot's position report, radio and radar contact with the accident aircraft was lost, and an Alert Notice (ALNOT) was issued. The last known radar position for the aircraft was approximately 6-tenths of a mile from the approach end of the runway.
Wreckage Location
The wreckage was located the following morning in a heavily wooded area 2,090 feet from the landing threshold of runway 10.
Weather Conditions
The automated weather observation at the airport during the timeframe of the accident reported, in part, visibility of 5 statute miles with a broken ceiling at 100 feet above ground level (agl) and an overcast ceiling at 800 feet agl.
Approach Minimia
The minimum descent altitude/height (MDA) for the approach is 1,240 feet above mean sea level, which is 1,096 feet above the touchdown zone elevation of 144 feet. The published minimum visibility for a straight-in NDB approach is 1-1/4 mile.
Post-Accident Examination
Post accident examination of the engines and airframe revealed no evidence of a pre-accident mechanical malfunction or failure.