Aircraft collision with mountain during instrument approach

1 fatality • Rutland-Southern Vermont Regional (State), United States of America • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft crashed into a mountainside while attempting an instrument approach, resulting in the deaths of both occupants.

What happened

During a second attempt at an instrument approach to runway 19, an aircraft struck a mountain located approximately 5 miles south of the airport. The flight had previously performed a missed approach on its initial attempt. Prior to the impact, the pilot reported being over the initial approach fix, positioned 9 miles north of the airfield.

The collision occurred at an elevation of 1,700 feet. Upon investigation, the wreckage was discovered oriented on a 190° magnetic heading, situated near the extended centerline of runway 19. At the time of the accident, the aircraft's landing gear and flaps were in the extended position. The area surrounding the airport is characterized by mountainous terrain.

The crash resulted in two fatalities among the occupants.

Findings

An examination of the aircraft revealed evidence of a malfunction. Several contributing factors were identified, including low ceiling weather conditions and the presence of high, mountainous terrain. The investigation concluded that the pilot in command failed to follow established IFR procedures and did not properly execute the required missed approach procedure.

Probable cause

The accident was caused by the pilot's failure to adhere to IFR procedures and perform a proper missed approach amidst low visibility and mountainous terrain.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1984-08-24 Cessna 414 Chancellor accident near Rutland-Southern Vermont Regional (State), United States of America?

An aircraft crashed into a mountainside while attempting an instrument approach, resulting in the deaths of both occupants.

Were there any fatalities in the 1984-08-24 Cessna 414 Chancellor accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 1 fatality.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1984-08-24 involved a Cessna 414 Chancellor, registration N18SM, operated by Seren, at Rutland-Southern Vermont Regional (State), United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The accident was caused by the pilot's failure to adhere to IFR procedures and perform a proper missed approach amidst low visibility and mountainous terrain.

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