Night Instrument Approach Accident Involves Terrain Impact and Pilot Medical History (N1832N)

Accident Overview and Weather Conditions The airplane was operating under an instrument flight plan when it impacted trees and terrain during a non-precision approach to the destination airport in night instrument meteorological conditions. Approximately 1.5 hours before the accident, the pilot received a weather briefing indicating expected overcast conditions of 300 to 600 feet above ground level (AGL) along the route and a present overcast ceiling of 400 feet AGL at the destination airport. The sky conditions at the destination airport remained unchanged when the airplane was cleared for the approach. The approach minimum for an aircraft with DME capability was 410 feet above touchdown elevation. The pilot did not file an alternate airport as required by Federal Aviation Regulations, which mandate that the ceiling be at least 2,000 feet AGL for at least one hour before and one hour after the estimated time of arrival. ## Approach Profile and Wreckage Evidence Radar track data for the airplane's approach profile was consistent with a controlled approach. The wreckage path through the tree was consistent with a level flight attitude in a direction along the inbound approach course. Additionally, the airplane was configured with the landing gear extended and the flaps extended to 15 degrees, a configuration consistent with an initial approach configuration. No anomalies were noted with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. ## Pilot Medical History and Decision Making Advisory Circular information cites operation pitfalls in aeronautical decision making, including “Get-There-Itis” and “Duck-Under Syndrome.” The pilot held an Authorization For Special Issuance Of A Medical Certificate, which stipulated conditions for its validity, including the requirement to promptly report any adverse changes in medical condition or medications to the FAA Medical Appeals Section, AAM-313. The authorization cautioned the pilot to abide by Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), Section 61.53, relating to physical deficiency, medication, or treatment. Because of the pilot's cardiac history, operation of aircraft was prohibited at any time new symptoms or adverse changes occurred, or if the pilot experienced side effects or required a change in medication. The pilot was reportedly having palpitations for 20 minutes at a time for the two months prior to the accident and noted being “tired” within a week of the accident, but there is no evidence that the pilot sought medical treatment for the fatigue or palpitations. The investigation could not determine if the pilot's physical condition was a factor in the accident flight.