What happened
During an approach conducted under conditions of rain, reduced visibility, and intermittent low cloud ceilings, the pilot was executing a GPS-based approach. As the aircraft reached the minimum descent altitude, the ground was only intermittently visible through the fog and precipitation. Upon nearing the missed approach point, the pilot identified the runway lights and proceeded with the descent.
However, the pilot subsequently lost visual contact with the runway environment. In response to the loss of visual references, a missed approach procedure was initiated. During this maneuver, the aircraft struck trees. The impact occurred approximately 2 miles from the runway threshold, situated on rising terrain that sat 200 feet below the elevation of the runway. The missed approach point had been positioned directly over the approach end of the runway.
Findings
- The flight was operating in weather characterized by rain and low ceilings.
- Loss of visual contact with the runway during the descent led to the initiation of the missed approach.
- The collision occurred on terrain located below the runway elevation.