What happened
Prior to departure, the pilot obtained a weather briefing. While approaching the destination airport, the pilot was cleared for the NDB approach and reported beginning the procedure turn. The published minimum descent altitude for this approach was 1,300 feet MSL. During the approach, witnesses on the ground observed heavy, low-lying fog moving into the Starkville area.
Communications over the UNICOM frequency captured the pilot noting the encroaching fog. Although a witness suggested diverting to an alternative airport due to the deteriorating visibility, the pilot indicated his intention to proceed with the approach. Witnesses subsequently heard the engines running at full power, followed by the sound of an impact and the sight of a fireball.
The aircraft type impacted the runway in an inverted position, sliding across the pavement before coming to a stop in the grass adjacent to the runway. A fire following the crash completely destroyed the aircraft. During the accident sequence, the plane struck a tree approximately 972 feet northwest of the runway impact site, which resulted in the loss of about 51 inches of the left wing.
Findings
An investigation into the mechanical state of the aircraft showed that the engines, propellers, and flight controls were functioning correctly with no signs of failure prior to the crash. Additionally, the NDB was inspected after the accident and found to be operating without discrepancies. The investigation noted that the pilot had previously failed two airline transport pilot checkrides, with a flight examiner describing the pilot's performance as marginal across all flight operations. The 1 fatality occurred as a result of the impact and subsequent fire.