What happened
During an instrument landing system (ILS) approach, the pilot experienced a period of distraction while monitoring cockpit communications. The pilot noted that at a specific point in the descent, they expected to see the approach lighting system but did not. In an attempt to verify the communication settings, the pilot checked the radio to ensure the correct frequency was being used.
While attempting to rectify a setting, the pilot discovered that the transmit switch had been incorrectly set to the wrong radio. During this period of preoccupation with the radio controls, the aircraft's descent profile deviated from the established glide path. The aircraft descended below the safe altitude required for the approach, resulting in a controlled flight into terrain before corrective actions could be taken.
Findings
- The pilot's attention was diverted from flight instruments to the radio equipment.
- A mistake in the selection of the transmit switch contributed to the loss of situational awareness regarding the aircraft's altitude.
- The aircraft impacted the ground while in the approach phase of flight.