What happened
While conducting a GPS approach to runway 35, the pilot was unable to identify the runway or its surrounding environment. Consequently, the crew initiated a missed approach procedure. During this maneuver, visibility improved briefly as the aircraft reached an altitude of approximately 4,000 to 5,000 feet near the approach end of runway 17. The pilot then decided to circle northwest to prepare for a visual approach to runway 17.
During the subsequent landing attempt, the aircraft was slightly high on the approach, leading to a flare that was higher than usual. As the plane descended, it entered a layer of fog just before touchdown. During the flare, the aircraft drifted toward the left side of the runway. The aircraft settled onto the runway left of the centerline, at which point the left main gear struck a snow berm. This impact caused the airplane to veer sharply to the left and depart the runway surface.
The excursion resulted in significant structural damage, including the separation of the nose gear, crushing of the radome, and a breach in the cockpit pressure bulkhead.
Findings
At the time of the incident, weather reports from LGU indicated calm winds with visibility restricted to 1/4 statute mile due to freezing fog. The sky condition showed vertical visibility of only 100 feet above ground level, with temperatures at minus 7 degrees Celsius.
Investigation into the accident identified that the pilot failed to follow the prescribed missed approach procedure and misjudged the prevailing weather conditions, leading to an encounter with fog and a loss of visual runway contact.