Accident Overview
A twin-engine airplane crashed short of the runway while on final approach to Aspen-Pitkin County-Sardy Field. The aircraft was destroyed, and all five occupants were seriously injured. The weather at the time of the accident was described as excellent.
Sequence of Events
The airplane was conducting an approach to the airport under clear and favorable weather conditions. During the final approach segment, the aircraft entered a stall and subsequently impacted terrain before reaching the runway.
Probable Cause and Contributing Factors
The investigation determined that the probable cause of the accident was a stall on final approach resulting from the pilot's failure to maintain flying speed. Two contributing factors were identified: high density altitude and a downwind condition.
Investigators noted that the high density altitude reduced the aircraft's performance capability, while the downwind leg may have affected the approach profile. The pilot's inability to maintain adequate airspeed led to the stall and subsequent loss of control.