Accident Overview
A charter flight, operating on behalf of Mohawk Airlines, diverted to Houston-William P. Hobby Intercontinental Airport after encountering poor weather conditions in Huntsville. The crew initiated an approach in low visibility due to foggy conditions.
Collision with Obstruction
On final approach, the airplane struck a 75-foot high electronic tower located approximately two miles short of the runway. The aircraft then crashed in a nearby field. Both pilots and three passengers lost their lives in the accident.
Weather Conditions
At the time of the accident, visibility was one-quarter mile or less due to fog. The official report noted low ceiling, fog, and visibility below minimums as contributing environmental factors.
Probable Cause and Contributing Factors
The probable cause of the accident was determined to be improper in-flight decisions and improper IFR operation. Contributing factors included low ceiling, fog, high obstructions, visibility below minimums, crew fatigue, and an attempted combined NDB and surveillance approach after a missed ILS approach under below-minimum conditions.