What happened
During a non-precision approach in rainy conditions with low ceilings and fog, the pilot intentionally descended beneath the established minimum descent altitude (MDA). Rather than performing the required missed approach procedure, the pilot attempted to execute a circling maneuver to land below the authorized minimums. During this maneuver, the pilot lost visual contact with the airport. Following a period of level flight where engine power was not increased, the aircraft lost speed and entered an aerodynamic stall. This resulted in an uncontrolled descent that ended in ground impact. Data from the enhanced ground proximity warning system (E/GPWS) indicated a significant deceleration of roughly 75 knots during the final 20 seconds of the flight. No mechanical failures or system malfunctions were identified in the wreckage.
Findings
Investigation of the cockpit voice recorder revealed that the pilot expressed intentions to descend below the MDA before establishing visual contact with the runway. Shortly after these statements, the EGPWS issued a sink rate warning, followed by several stall warnings. Toxicology reports identified the presence of sertraline, an antidepressant, in the pilot's system. The pilot's medical history included diagnoses of diabetes, anxiety, and depression, as well as a history of kidney stones. Notably, several of these medical conditions and the use of certain medications had not been disclosed on previous medical certificate applications. The investigation noted that the pilot's deliberate descent below the MDA occurred while attempting to execute a circling approach without sufficient visibility.