Accident Overview
During an approach to Rio Vista Municipal Airport, the pilot of the airplane encountered reduced visibility due to fog and a low ceiling. While on final approach, the aircraft descended to an altitude that was too low, resulting in a collision with the ground. The impact caused the airplane to crash and burst into flames. Both occupants were killed.
Circumstances
The flight was conducting a VOR-A approach to the airport. Weather conditions at the time included fog, a low ceiling, and visibility of half a mile or less. The pilot descended below the minimum descent altitude (MDA) during the approach. Subsequently, the aircraft struck the ground, leading to the destruction of the airplane and the death of both occupants.
Probable Cause
The official investigation determined that the probable cause of the accident was a controlled collision with ground during final approach due to improper IFR operation. Contributing factors included the low ceiling, fog, visibility of half a mile or less, and the descent below the MDA during the VOR-A approach.