Accident Sequence
During a nighttime final approach to Bethany Airport, the pilot performed a last turn to join the approach path. The pilot then lost command of the aircraft, leading to a crash that resulted in a fire. The accident site was located a few miles from the airfield.
Occupants and Injuries
Aboard the aircraft were one passenger who suffered serious injuries and four other occupants who were fatally injured.
Probable Cause
According to official investigation findings, the probable cause of the accident was an uncontrolled collision with ground during a traffic pattern-circling maneuver. This was attributed to spatial disorientation on the part of the pilot. Contributing factors included fog and instrument flight rules (IFR) conditions. The pilot experienced disorientation while transitioning from visual flight rules (VFR) to IFR conditions during a left turn at low altitude.