What happened
During an approach toward Class B airspace, the pilot of the aircraft was in contact with air traffic control. During these communications, the controller noted that the pilot's speech appeared slurred, prompting the controller to check if the aircraft's oxygen system was functioning correctly. While approximately 85 miles from the intended destination, the pilot reported seeing a nearby airport and requested a visual approach. Despite instructions from the controller to proceed southwest toward the original destination, the aircraft disappeared from radar shortly after passing the secondary airport.
The aircraft subsequently landed at the unplanned airport. Evidence from runway impact marks and surveillance footage indicated that the aircraft struck the runway with significant force roughly halfway down the strip, causing it to slide toward the left side of the runway. Following the impact, a fire broke out that largely destroyed the wings and fuselage. Upon arrival at the scene, authorities arrested the pilot for operating the aircraft while under the influence. Testing revealed a blood alcohol level of 0.288.
Findings
Investigations determined that the pilot's blood alcohol level of 0.288 was a primary factor in the incident. This level of impairment likely led to the pilot's failure to navigate to the correct destination and the subsequent loss of control during the landing phase.