Flight Crew Information
The accident flight was crewed by two pilots. The private pilot/operator was most likely seated in the left seat. He had obtained his instrument rating approximately seven months prior and had accumulated about 300 hours of flight experience, with roughly 80 hours in the accident airplane. The commercial pilot/company pilot was most likely seated in the right seat. He had logged about 1,000 hours total, including 125 hours of actual instrument experience, and about 80 hours in the accident airplane.
Flight Plan and Weather Briefing
The commercial pilot filed a flight plan to an incorrect airport and received a weather briefing for that wrong airport. Consequently, he was unaware of a NOTAM indicating that the approach lighting system at the intended destination was out of service. When he realized the error, he amended the flight plan but did not request an updated weather briefing.
Approach and Missed Approach
According to radar data, the airplane flew the instrument landing system approach to runway 5 at a speed described as fast. It then performed a steep missed approach climb to 1,000 feet. After reaching that altitude, the airplane disappeared from radar.
Investigation Findings
The investigation determined that the radar track was consistent with a loss of control during the missed approach. No preimpact mechanical malfunctions were identified with the airplane. The reported weather at the accident airport included an overcast ceiling at 200 feet, visibility of 1 mile in light rain and mist, and wind from 160 degrees at 4 knots. The investigation was unable to determine which pilot was flying the airplane at the time of the accident.