What happened
While conducting an arrival, the flight was being vectored for an ILS runway 32 approach. During this process, air traffic control informed the pilot regarding current cloud tops and the presence of in-cloud icing. The pilot acknowledged these updates and requested information regarding the status of the locator; the controller confirmed that all ILS components, including the outer marker locator, were functioning normally.
Approximately four miles from the final approach fix, the pilot received a final vector and was cleared to circle and land on runway 23. Shortly after acknowledging these instructions, both radio and radar contact with the aircraft ceased. The aircraft type crashed roughly two miles southeast of the final approach fix while in a steep descent on a heading of 140°. The wreckage sustained extensive damage, though investigators found no evidence of pre-impact mechanical failure or part malfunction.
All four fatalities occurred during the accident. Investigations into the pilot's medical history noted a hospital admission for a stroke following a boating incident several weeks prior; however, autopsy and toxicological results showed no medical condition that would have incapacitated the pilot during flight operations. Additionally, it was noted that Airworthiness Directive 88-13-01 regarding specific autopilot equipment had not been implemented.
Findings
- The aircraft was operating in conditions involving clouds, icing, and low ceilings.
- Spatial disorientation of the pilot caused a loss of control during the approach phase.