What happened
During a night flight in instrument meteorological conditions, the pilot was navigating toward a destination airport following a cross-country trip. While receiving radar vectors for the final approach, the pilot failed to consistently adhere to assigned headings and allowed the aircraft to descend below the required altitudes. Data from radar and GPS indicates that approximately two and a half minutes prior to the accident, the pilot reduced engine power while maneuvering toward the final approach fix. This reduction in power caused the airspeed to drop from 162 to 75 knots, while the angle of attack rose from 2.7° to 14°.
As the aircraft approached the final approach fix, it descended to 1,500 feet MSL, which was 500 feet below the prescribed minimum altitude of 2,000 feet MSL. Upon noticing the altitude deviation, the tower controller notified the pilot, who acknowledged the need to climb. However, five seconds after this notification, the pilot applied an abrupt upward elevator input. This maneuver further decreased the airspeed and caused the aircraft to enter an aerodynamic stall. Eyewitnesses and security footage observed the aircraft transition from level flight into a steep, nose-down, left-banked spiral toward the ground. A post-accident inspection of the aircraft found no mechanical failures that would have prevented normal operation.
Findings
- The pilot had recently acquired the aircraft and had completed type-specific training only one month prior to the event.
- Although the pilot had limited vision in the left eye due to a childhood injury, he held a valid Statement of Demonstrated Ability.
- It could not be determined from available records if a lack of recent night or instrument proficiency contributed to the loss of control.