Incident Overview
A pilot on a positioning flight to Chicago-Merrill C. Meigs Airport encountered poor weather conditions while descending. The weather included low ceiling, fog, and limited visibility. During the descent, the pilot lost control of the airplane, which subsequently crashed into Lake Michigan. Few debris were found, and the main wreckage was not recovered. Both occupants were presumed dead.
Investigation Findings
Investigators determined that the pilot suffered a loss of control on final approach due to spatial disorientation. Several contributing factors were identified: the pilot initiated the flight in adverse weather conditions, and the environment featured low ceiling, fog, and visibility limited to one mile or less.
Probable Cause
The official probable cause was loss of control on final approach after the pilot suffered spatial disorientation. Contributing factors included initiating flight in adverse weather, low ceiling, fog, and visibility limited to one mile or less.