What happened
Prior to departure, the pilot of XA-KUT, an unspecified aircraft type, received a briefing regarding Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) conditions at Houston Hobby (HOU). The forecast indicated heavy fog with near-zero visibility and a ceiling that was obscured. While weather improvements were expected by late morning, the flight departed at 0900 CST.
Upon arrival at HOU, the flight experienced delays due to ongoing weather conditions. The crew opted for an ILS approach, planning to divert if they were unable to complete the landing. During the approach, the pilot was notified that the Runway Visual Range (RVR) had decreased to 1,400 feet. Despite being cleared to land, the aircraft continued its descent.
While on final approach, a low altitude alert was triggered in the cockpit. The aircraft descended below the established decision height of 200 feet AGL and struck a power line located approximately 6,500 feet from the runway threshold. The impact resulted in one fatality and seven injuries, three of which were classified as serious.
Findings
Investigations revealed that the RVR of 1,400 feet was below the required minimum of 2,400 feet for the approach. No mechanical failures or pre-impact malfunctions were identified within the aircraft systems. While a flight check of the ILS showed a minor discrepancy regarding the outer marker width, the primary contributing factors included heavy fog and low ceilings. The accident was attributed to the pilot's failure to identify the decision height and operating below established landing minimums.