What happened
During the approach phase, the aircraft descended to 2,600 feet as it reached the NDB. After crossing the NDB, the flight began its approach, but radar contact with the Huntsville facility was lost once the plane dropped below 1,500 feet MSL. The next radio transmission received from the pilot indicated that a missed approach procedure was being initiated. According to the established procedure, the aircraft was meant to climb and perform a left turn toward the CPP NDB to hold.
Over the following 84 seconds, the aircraft performed several turns. During this period, the altitude of the plane fluctuated, but it failed to ascend beyond 1,700 feet. The wreckage was eventually discovered roughly 3.5 miles north of the airport at a 345-degree heading, positioned on the opposite side of the outbound course from the NDB. Local witnesses reported hearing the plane flying at a low altitude over residential areas, though heavy fog prevented them from seeing the aircraft.
Findings
Investigation into the pilot's background revealed that the pilot lacked any prior experience operating fixed-wing aircraft.