Accident Overview
During the transition from a DME arc to the ILS final approach course, the pilot allowed the aircraft to prematurely descend into the ground. The reason for the descent could not be determined. However, no preimpact mechanical malfunction with the aircraft was found, nor was there any evidence supporting pilot incapacitation. Dark night conditions in fog and low ceilings prevailed during the approach. All three occupants were injured, two seriously.
Findings
The investigation identified the following findings:
- The reason for the occurrence was undetermined.
- The pilot prematurely descended during the approach.
- Dark night conditions were present.
- Fog was present.
- Low ceilings were present.
No evidence of a preimpact mechanical malfunction was found, and there was no indication that the pilot was incapacitated.
Probable Cause
As stated in the official investigation: The reason for the occurrence was undetermined, but the pilot prematurely descended during the approach in dark night conditions with fog and low ceilings.