Aircraft Crashes After Missed Approach at Temporary Winter Strip (N540N)

Accident Details

The accident occurred during a missed approach to a temporary winter landing strip. The aircraft impacted terrain in a steep nose-down attitude. Marginal weather conditions prevailed, and icing was reported. All four occupants sustained injuries, with both pilots suffering serious injuries.

Probable Cause and Contributing Factors

According to the official investigation, the probable cause of the accident was an in-flight collision with terrain during a go-around phase under visual flight rules. Several contributing factors were identified:

• The pilot in command did not follow flight manuals.
• The pilot in command exhibited overconfidence in the aircraft's ability.
• Company/operator management failed to adequately supervise the operation.
• Fog was present, and the pilot in command inaccurately evaluated the weather.
• Company-induced pressure from management.
• Inadequate surveillance by the FAA.
• The flight took place during dark night conditions.
• The pilot in command made poor in-flight planning and decisions.
• Another person had expectancy that influenced the situation.
• Company/operator management had insufficient standards and requirements.
• The pilot in command was fatigued due to flight and ground schedule.
• Icing conditions existed.
• The pilot in command intentionally flew into known adverse weather.
• The copilot was also fatigued.
• Ice accumulated on the wing.
• The pilot in command did not use the anti-ice/deice system.
• The pilot in command failed to maintain adequate altitude.

The terrain was snow-covered at the time of the accident.