Fatal aircraft crash during final approach

5 fatalities • Morrisville, United States of America • Landing (descent or approach)

A twin-engine aircraft crashed into a field short of the runway threshold during an approach in adverse weather, resulting in five fatalities.

What happened

During an approach to the runway under challenging meteorological conditions, a twin engine aircraft lost control while on final approach. The flight path became unstable after passing the outer marker, leading the plane to strike trees before impacting an open field located just before the runway threshold. The impact resulted in the total destruction of the airframe and caused five fatalities among the occupants.

Findings

Investigations into the accident identified several contributing elements related to the flight's execution. A significant factor was the pilot-in-command's improper IFR operation. The aircraft encountered a sudden change in wind direction at an altitude of approximately 400 feet, which the crew failed to compensate for adequately. This windshift contributed to an erratic flight path during the ILS straight-in approach, ultimately leading to the loss of control.

Probable cause

The accident was caused by improper instrument flight rules procedures performed by the pilot-in-command.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1970-04-02 Cessna 401 accident near Morrisville, United States of America?

A twin-engine aircraft crashed into a field short of the runway threshold during an approach in adverse weather, resulting in five fatalities.

Were there any fatalities in the 1970-04-02 Cessna 401 accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 5 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1970-04-02 involved a Cessna 401, registration N401RA, operated by Roberts Construction, at Morrisville, United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The accident was caused by improper instrument flight rules procedures performed by the pilot-in-command.

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