Approach and Descent
The pilot was cleared for the ILS Runway 6 approach. The previous landing traffic reported breaking out at minimums. Radar data showed that the airplane descended in instrument meteorological conditions to the decision height of 294 feet, approximately 3 miles from the missed approach point. The pilot did not perform the missed approach procedure. The airplane then leveled off and continued at or below decision height altitude for approximately 28 seconds, covering a distance of about 1 mile.
Air Traffic Control Interaction
Four low altitude alerts appeared on the tower controller's display. The controller stated that he withheld the alert because it was a critical phase of flight and the aircraft appeared to be climbing.
Collision
The airplane collided with trees and terrain approximately 1.5 miles from the approach end of the landing runway.
Probable Cause
The official findings state that the probable cause was the pilot's early descent to decision height and his failure to perform the missed approach procedure. A factor was the failure of air traffic control to issue a safety advisory.