Overview
A pilot reported that the flight was not a charter operation. He decided to attempt a localizer approach to runway 17 at Olathe despite forecasts indicating zero-zero conditions. The pilot recalled bracketing the localizer and reading 1,600 feet on the altimeter, then waking up on the ground inside the wreckage while trying to mitigate injuries and stay warm.
Accident Sequence
Post-accident examination revealed that the aircraft was positioned left of the localizer course when it struck two trees at 12 feet above ground level (1,062 feet mean sea level) while in a 30° right bank. The aircraft then performed a flat 360° right pirouette over some small trees, which resulted in the left wing being torn off. After that, the aircraft impacted the ground and slid approximately 600 feet.
Post-Crash Fire
A fire erupted from the right wing tank after the crash but extinguished itself without external intervention. The fuel system tank was found to have burst.
Investigation
An FAA operational flight test of the localizer found it to be within prescribed limits. Leak checks of the aircraft's static system and bench checks of both altimeters showed satisfactory performance.
Probable Cause Findings
The official investigation identified the following factors: weather condition of fog, dark night lighting, and an object (trees). The pilot's in-flight planning and decision-making were deemed improper. The pilot failed to perform required IFR procedures, did not maintain the minimum descent altitude, and did not execute a missed approach. Additionally, the fuel system tank burst was a factor in the post-crash fire.