Aircraft disappearance during VOR approach

2 fatalities • Saint Augustine, United States of America • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft disappeared while performing a VOR runway 13 approach, resulting in the deaths of both occupants.

What happened

During a VOR-based approach to runway 13, the aircraft vanished from radar surveillance approximately 1.5 miles before reaching the airport. Radar tracking indicated that the flight's descent rate, ground speed, and altitude were all in alignment with the expected approach profile. The final recorded radar position placed the aircraft at an altitude of 100 feet, positioned directly on the extended centerline of the runway.

Following the disappearance, a debris field was identified, which followed a path oriented on a 130° magnetic heading. Eyewitness accounts from the area noted that visibility was extremely poor due to heavy fog at the time of the incident. The accident resulted in two fatalities, with no survivors among the crew.

Findings

Investigation of the radar data confirmed that the aircraft was maintaining a standard approach pattern prior to its disappearance. However, the presence of near-zero visibility caused by dense fog was a significant environmental factor during the final stages of the flight.

Probable cause

The aircraft disappeared during an approach in conditions of near-zero visibility caused by heavy fog.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1992-04-09 Beechcraft 90 King Air accident near Saint Augustine, United States of America?

An aircraft disappeared while performing a VOR runway 13 approach, resulting in the deaths of both occupants.

Were there any fatalities in the 1992-04-09 Beechcraft 90 King Air accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 2 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1992-04-09 involved a Beechcraft 90 King Air, registration N105FL, operated by Government of Florida, at Saint Augustine, United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The aircraft disappeared during an approach in conditions of near-zero visibility caused by heavy fog.

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