On November 12, 1970, a Beechcraft G18S (registration N871MP) operated by Rambar Aviation was involved in an aviation accident near Pittsburgh-Intl, United States of America during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Improper IFR operation on part of the crew who misread or failed to read the instruments on approach. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
During a night approach to Pittsburgh-Greater Pittsburgh Airport, the crew failed to maintain altitude, striking trees and crashing 3 miles short of the runway. All seven occupants were seriously injured and the aircraft destroyed.
Accident Overview
While on a night approach to Pittsburgh-Greater Pittsburgh Airport, the crew did not realize that the aircraft's altitude was too low. The airplane struck tree tops and crashed approximately 3 miles short of the runway. The impact resulted in serious injuries to all seven occupants and destruction of the aircraft.
Probable Cause
According to official findings, the probable cause of the accident was improper IFR operation on the part of the crew, who misread or failed to read the instruments during the approach. The airplane hit the ground 3 miles short of the runway, approximately 950 feet below the glide slope.