Accident Overview
An airline transport rated pilot, holding 18,730 hours of flight experience, lost control of a homebuilt airplane while executing a GPS instrument approach to Runway 14 at a non-towered airport. The airport offers two instrument approaches to Runway 14: a VOR/DME and a GPS approach. Published weather minimums for the GPS approach required a 500-foot ceiling and one mile visibility.
Witness Accounts
One witness reported that the pilot made "two passes" before the airplane crashed at the east end of the runway. This witness also noted that heavy fog was present at the time. Another witness heard two "loud pops," went outside, and observed smoke and a small fire but could not see the airplane. This witness confirmed that foggy conditions prevailed.
Aircraft Examination
A post-impact fire consumed most of the airframe. A detailed inspection of the remaining structure and systems revealed no anomalies. Examination of the engine found no mechanical issues. The propeller showed one blade slightly bent forward, while the other blade did not appear bent. Both blades exhibited leading edge polishing. The propeller signatures were consistent with a propeller absorbing rotational energy with power into soft soil or sand. The flap actuator was found in the extended position, corresponding to a flaps-up configuration.
Weather Conditions
The automated weather station located approximately 17 miles south of the accident site reported at 0851: visibility of five miles in mist, scattered clouds at 10,000 feet, and winds from 140 degrees at 6 knots.