Accident Sequence
The cargo flight departed Cincinnati en route to Wichita, KS, with an intermediate stop at Kansas City Downtown Airport. The flight progressed normally to a VOR runway 03 instrument approach, circling to runway 01. The pilot-in-command had been cleared to commence the approach. Tower personnel subsequently advised the pilot of a low altitude alert, to which the pilot responded that he had ground contact. The pilot then declared a missed approach, followed by 'I got it all right,' and requested a 360° turn and landing on runway 01.
Witnesses observed the aircraft approach from the west at a low altitude. While over airport property, the aircraft turned sharply. The left wing dropped quickly as the aircraft banked nearly 90°. The aircraft impacted the ramp area 400 feet right of runway 01, in front of a fixed base operator, and burst into flames. The aircraft slid about 200 feet before coming to a stop.
Pilot and Training
The company chief pilot stated that the pilot-in-command was deficient in VOR approaches. The pilot was the sole occupant on board and was killed.
Probable Cause
The official findings attributed the accident to two occurrences. For Occurrence #1 (abrupt maneuver during circling): the pilot-in-command descended below the minimum descent altitude, executed improper IFR procedures and improper maneuvers, and inadvertently stalled the aircraft; additionally, the company/operator management provided inadequate training, and the pilot failed to perform a missed approach. Occurrence #2 (in-flight collision with terrain/water) occurred during an uncontrolled descent.