Two Occupants Killed in Crash During ILS Approach in Below Minimum Conditions (N9253Y)

Incident Narrative

The pilot initiated an ILS approach in weather conditions below minimums shortly after nightfall. A low altitude alert was issued, but the pilot continued the approach. The pilot announced a missed approach and reported difficulties climbing to altitude. An unspecified emergency was declared, and the pilot requested vectors to a larger airport despite worsening weather. The aircraft reached an altitude of 2,100 feet, but the pilot commenced another ILS approach despite prior difficulties. Radar data revealed excessive maneuvering to intercept the inbound course, with wide variations in ground speed and altitude. After a steep climb at low groundspeed, the aircraft disappeared from radar coverage.

Witness Accounts and Wreckage

Witnesses reported irregular engine sounds as the aircraft made a tight level turn at low altitude before impacting trees in a near level attitude. On-scene evidence indicated that both engines were producing power at the time of impact. A post-impact fire consumed the wreckage. Both occupants were killed.

Probable Cause

The official probable cause findings include multiple occurrences:

• Occurrence #1: Miscellaneous/other during missed approach (IFR) with findings of partial loss of climb capability, undetermined reason for occurrence, and maintenance personnel not performing required tasks.
• Occurrence #2: Loss of control in flight during approach (IAF to FAF/outer marker IFR) with findings of below-approach/landing minimums weather condition, improper in-flight planning/decision by the pilot in command, intentional flight into known adverse weather, excessive maneuver by the pilot in command, improper airspeed, and failure to maintain proper altitude.
• Occurrence #3: In-flight collision with an object during maneuvering with the object being tree(s).