On August 15, 2000, a Piper PA-31-350 Navajo Chieftain (registration N801MW) operated by Holman Funeral Home was involved in an aviation accident near Hazlehurst, United States of America during landing or approach. 3 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Pilot's failure to follow instrument procedures and descended below approach minimums and collided with trees. A factor was low clouds. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
The pilot was cleared for a NDB or GPS instrument approach to runway 14. The aircraft descended below minimums and collided with trees, then caught fire. No mechanical issues were found.
Accident Overview
The flight was cleared for an instrument approach using either NDB or GPS to runway 14. Air traffic control instructed the pilot to report the procedure turn. Center radar recorded the aircraft's last observed altitude at 200 feet. A witness saw the airplane strike trees and the ground, after which it burst into flames.
Approach and Descent
The approach minimums for the procedure are 800 feet ceiling and one mile visibility. Low clouds were reported in the vicinity at the time of the accident. The pilot's descent continued below the published minimum descent altitude, leading to collision with trees.
Investigation and Findings
Examination of the wreckage revealed no mechanical problems with the airplane, nor did the pilot report any malfunctions. The investigation determined that the pilot failed to adhere to instrument procedures, descending below approach minimums before impacting terrain.
Probable cause
Pilot's failure to follow instrument procedures and descended below approach minimums and collided with trees. A factor was low clouds.