Accident Summary
A Queen Air aircraft crashed during a night approach to Mobile Airport after encountering severe turbulence. The aircraft lost control and impacted the ground a few hundred yards short of the runway threshold.
Sequence of Events
The pilot began a night approach to Mobile Airport when severe turbulence was encountered. Control of the aircraft was lost, resulting in the crash short of the runway.
Injuries and Damage
One passenger was injured in the accident. Three other occupants were killed. The aircraft was destroyed.
Airport Conditions
At the time of the accident, Mobile Airport was closed. The airport's operating hours were from 0000 to 0600 local time. There was no air traffic control employee in the tower.
Probable Cause
The official investigation determined the probable cause to be a loss of control on final approach due to wake turbulence caused by a DC-9 that was preceding the Queen Air. It was reported that the crew of the DC-9 was practicing landings and ILS low approaches.