Incident Summary
During an instrument landing system (ILS) approach to runway 24 at night in instrument meteorological conditions, the pilot observed a full right deflection on the course deviation indicator (CDI). After correcting to the left, the CDI then showed a full left deflection near the decision altitude. At that moment, the pilot heard and felt a loud "bang," and the airplane turned left. The pilot aborted the approach, executed the missed approach procedure, and declared an emergency. Air traffic control vectored the aircraft to a nearby airport, where the pilot landed without further incident.
Weather Conditions
The airport's automated weather observation station reported conditions around the time of the occurrence: wind from 220° at 5 knots, visibility of one-quarter statute mile, runway visual range varying from 1,800 to 2,200 ft, fog with vertical visibility of 200 ft, temperature and dew point both 21°C, and an altimeter setting of 30.01 inches of mercury.
Inspection Findings
An examination by a Federal Aviation Administration inspector revealed the presence of pine needles in the damaged section of the airplane's left wing. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing. The pilot reported no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions that would have precluded normal operation.