Accident Overview
A twin-engine aircraft was conducting an instrument landing system (ILS) straight-in approach under poor weather conditions. During the final approach segment, the aircraft went out of control, struck trees, and crashed in an open field located short of the runway threshold. The airplane was destroyed in the impact and subsequent post-crash fire. All five occupants on board were killed.
Final Approach
After passing the outer marker, the aircraft exhibited an erratic flight path. Weather conditions included a strong windshift reported at approximately 400 feet above ground level. The pilot-in-command was flying the aircraft under instrument flight rules (IFR) but failed to compensate properly for the wind conditions. A sudden windshift further destabilized the approach, leading to loss of control.
Probable Cause
The official investigation determined that the probable cause of the accident was improper IFR operation on the part of the pilot-in-command. The following contributing factors were identified:
- Improper compensation for wind conditions
- Sudden windshift
- Erratic flight path after passing the outer marker
- ILS straight-in approach
- Strong windshift reported at approximately 400 feet