What happened
On January 17, 2023, a Piper PA-46-350P JetProp DLX, registration N963MA, crashed near Yoakum, Texas, while performing an instrument approach to Yoakum Municipal Airport (T85). The flight, which originated from Memphis International Airport (MEM), was a business trip involving the pilot, a copilot, and two passengers.
During the descent, the pilot was cleared for an RNAV (GPS) Runway 31 approach. As the aircraft approached the destination, the pilot initiated a right climbing turn, which disconnected the autopilot. Flight track data and witness testimony indicate the aircraft began to pitch and roll aggressively. The airplane's airspeed dropped to a minimum of 16 knots, well below the stall speed. The aircraft then entered a rapid descent and impacted a grass field approximately 1.5 miles southeast of the airport. The accident resulted in 4 fatal injuries and 1 serious injury.
The investigation
Investigators analyzed data from the Avidyne DFC-90 autopilot and the Honeywell KMH 820 EGPWS. The autopilot data showed that after the pilot disconnected the system, the aircraft's pitch increased to +20° and the roll reached +47°. The pilot subsequently engaged the unusual attitude recovery (UAR) mode, but provided conflicting control inputs that prevented stabilization. The EGPWS recorded "sink rate" and "pull up" warnings during the sequence.
Mechanical examinations of the engine, airframe, and flight controls revealed no anomalies. The engine performance parameters were normal, and the landing gear was found in the extended position. A review of the pilot's checklist revealed variations from the manufacturer's approved manual.
Meteorological analysis confirmed the presence of low clouds and fog, with visibility as low as 1.5 miles. While a Center Weather Advisory (CWA) for lifiting icing/low visibility was active, the investigation found that the air traffic controller had failed to disseminate the updated CWA 103 to the pilot.
Findings
- The pilot experienced spatial disorientation while performing a missed approach in instrument meteorological conditions.
- The pilot's control inputs during the use of the unusual attitude recovery mode were inappropriate and conflicted with the autopilot's attempts to stabilize the aircraft.
- The aircraft exceeded its critical angle of attack, leading to an aerodynamic stall and subsequent impact with the terrain.