Accident Summary
A twin-engine airplane crashed while on approach by night to Houston-Intercontinental Airport. The aircraft descended too low, struck trees, and subsequently impacted the ground. Four of the five occupants were killed, and one passenger sustained serious injuries.
Investigation Findings
Investigators determined that the accident occurred during an ILS approach approximately five miles behind a Boeing 727. The reported visibility was two miles or less, and fog was present. Contributing factors included wind shear, an incorrect altimeter setting on the part of the pilot (the altimeter was set 0.5 below the correct setting), and high obstructions along the approach path.
Probable Cause
The official probable cause was an undershoot on final approach and subsequent collision with trees due to improper IFR operation. Contributing factors reported were wind shear, incorrect altimeter setting, high obstructions, visibility two miles or less, fog, the aircraft's proximity to a preceding Boeing 727, and an altimeter setting 0.5 below the correct value.