Introduction
A pilot was cleared for a localizer approach by Atlanta Center and instructed to maintain 5,000 feet until crossing the final approach fix (FAF), where the normal altitude was 2,700 feet. The pilot could not land from this approach and performed a missed approach.
Second Approach and Crash
The pilot was handed off to Chattanooga Approach, then cleared to cross the FAF at 3,000 feet and execute another localizer approach. About one mile from the FAF, the pilot was directed to change to the airport advisory frequency. The pilot acknowledged, but no further communication was received. Shortly after, witnesses heard the aircraft crash near the approach end of the runway.
Examination of Crash Site
Examination of the crash site revealed that the aircraft touched down in a grass area about 1,100 feet from the end of the runway while aligned with the localizer. Propeller slash marks indicated both engines were operating at approach power and the aircraft was at approach speed. No evidence of precrash mechanical failure or malfunction of the aircraft structure, flight controls, systems, engines, or propellers was found.
Weather and Pilot Information
Weather at 0621 reported 300 feet overcast and 1/2 mile visibility with fog. The minimum descent altitude (MDA) for the localizer approach was 1,180 feet msl; airport elevation was 710 feet. The pilot had flown 8 flight hours, was on duty for 13.6 hours the day before the accident, was off duty for about 6 hours, and had about 4 hours of sleep before the accident flight.
Probable Cause
The probable cause of the accident was the pilot's improper IFR procedure, specifically failing to maintain the minimum descent altitude (MDA) during the localizer approach until the runway environment was in sight, resulting in a collision with terrain short of the runway. Factors relating to the accident were darkness, low ceiling, fog, pilot fatigue, and improper scheduling by the aircraft operator.