Accident Overview
A cargo flight en route to Chicago-Midway Airport encountered poor weather conditions at night, including fog, low clouds, and rain showers. During the flight, the VOR receiver malfunctioned. The pilot reduced altitude, likely to maintain visual contact with the ground. The aircraft subsequently struck a hill and was destroyed. Both people on board were killed.
Investigation Findings
Investigators determined that the pilot initiated the flight despite knowing that the transmitter/receiver was inoperative before departure. While airborne in adverse weather, the second system also failed. The official probable cause attributed the accident to the pilot's decision to operate the aircraft with known equipment deficiencies, which led to a loss of navigational capability in poor weather.