Accident Overview
During an instrument approach in instrument meteorological conditions (IMC), an aircraft struck trees approximately two miles short of the runway. A pilot occupying the right front seat reported that just before impact, the aircraft was descending at 2,500 feet per minute. He observed trees ahead and yelled for the pilot to "pull up," but the pilot did not respond. The pilot was killed; passengers sustained injuries.
Weather and Operational Context
The weather conditions at the time included low ceiling, rain, and fog, which contributed to the low visibility environment typical of IMC. The flight was conducting an instrument approach, specifically during the phase from the final approach fix (FAF) or outer marker to the threshold under instrument flight rules (IFR).
Official Findings
The official investigation identified the following factors and causes related to the accident:
- Weather Conditions: Low ceiling, rain, and fog were present.
- Pilot Actions: The pilot in command performed an improper IFR procedure, descended below the minimum descent altitude, and did not execute a missed approach.
- Object: The aircraft collided with trees.
The sequence of events was classified as an in-flight collision with an object during the approach phase.
Conclusion
The accident resulted from the pilot in command's failure to adhere to proper IFR procedures, including maintaining the minimum descent altitude and executing a missed approach when necessary, leading to a collision with trees in low visibility conditions.