On January 8, 1988, a Learjet 36 (registration N79SF) operated by Phoenix Air Group was involved in an aviation accident near Monroe, United States of America during landing or approach. 2 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Occurrence #1: in flight collision with terrain/water Phase of operation: approach - iaf to faf/outer marker (ifr) Findings 1. (c) descent - excessive - pilot in command 2. (f) inattentive - pilot in command 3. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 2 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
While executing an ILS approach, the aircraft impacted terrain at 5.9 DME with a high rate of descent. No pre-impact failure was found. The copilot lacked total experience in the aircraft type.
Accident Summary
During an ILS approach, the aircraft turned back inbound on the procedure turn toward the outer marker. The copilot calmly reported being 5.9 DME without any indication of a problem. Shortly thereafter, the aircraft struck the ground at approximately 5.9 DME, about 10 statute miles from the airport. The impact attitude was slightly nose up with a slight right wing down, and the aircraft had a high vertical rate of descent and high forward speed. The aircraft was demolished.
Investigation Findings
Investigators found no evidence of any pre-impact failure or malfunction of the aircraft or its systems. The copilot was not rated in the aircraft and had logged only 7.9 hours of jet time in his personal logbook.
Probable Cause
The official probable cause findings listed an in-flight collision with terrain during the approach phase from the initial approach fix to the final approach fix/outer marker (IFR). Specific findings included:
Excessive descent by the pilot in command
Inattentiveness by the pilot in command
Failure to level off by the pilot in command
Lack of total experience in type of aircraft by the copilot/second pilot