What happened
During an ILS approach to runway 6, the aircraft emerged from the cloud layer at an altitude of 500 feet before becoming obscured by clouds once again. While the aircraft was still in the air and prior to touchdown, it drifted to the right of the runway centerline. The plane subsequently struck a snow bank situated in the grassy area between the runway and the taxiway.
At the time of the incident, the pilot reported that the aircraft was beginning a missed approach procedure. The pilot also noted that there were no visible signs of any mechanical failure or aircraft malfunction during the sequence. Weather conditions at the time were characterized by a ceiling of 100 feet with sky obscured and a visibility of only 1/4 mile. Winds were recorded at 040 degrees at 6 knots.
Findings
- The aircraft drifted off the runway centerline during the approach phase.
- Low visibility and low cloud ceiling were present during the flight.
- The impact occurred with a snow bank located in the grass adjacent to the runway.