Incident Summary
A pilot reported that while conducting an instrument landing system (ILS) approach, he momentarily diverted his attention from flight instruments to troubleshoot a radio issue. This distraction resulted in an unintended descent below the prescribed glide path, leading to the aircraft impacting the terrain.
Pilot Account
According to the pilot, during the approach he reached a point where he expected to see the approach lights. At that moment, he checked the radio to verify it was on the correct frequency. He then realized that the transmit switch was selected to the wrong radio. After correcting the radio selection and returning his attention to the instrument panel, he discovered that the aircraft had descended too low on the glide path. Before he could take corrective action, the airplane struck the ground.
Probable Cause
The official investigation determined the probable cause of the accident to be the pilot's failure to maintain the proper glide path and his diversion of attention during a critical phase of flight.