Accident Details
The accident occurred while the pilot was on approach to Natchez-Hardy Ander Field Airport. The twin-engine airplane was operating in conditions of limited visibility caused by low ceiling, fog, and darkness. The pilot had set an incorrect altimeter setting, resulting in the aircraft descending too low until it struck the ground and crashed. The airplane came to rest approximately 200 feet to the right of the localizer centerline. No flight plan had been filed for the flight.
Weather and Circumstances
Weather conditions at the time included low ceiling and fog, with visibility of 1/4 mile or less. The altimeter setting reported by the Flight Service Station was 30.03 inches of mercury, while the altimeter in the aircraft was set to 30.20 inches. These conditions were below the minimums required for the approach.
Findings
The official investigation determined that the probable cause of the accident was a controlled collision with ground on final approach due to improper IFR operation. Contributing factors were identified as the pilot's failure to follow approved procedures, the low ceiling and fog, the incorrect altimeter setting (30.03 inches at FSS versus 30.20 in the aircraft), visibility of 1/4 mile or less, and weather conditions below minimums. The pilot was the sole occupant and was killed in the crash.