Overview
On a night approach to Walla Walla Airport, a twin-engine airplane was on final approach when the pilot encountered limited visibility due to fog. The aircraft descended below the minimum descent altitude (MDA) and subsequently struck the ground, crashing short of the runway threshold. The impact destroyed the airplane, and the pilot, who was the only person on board, died in the crash.
Accident Details
The approach was conducted at night under conditions of reduced visibility caused by fog. The pilot descended below the published MDA while still on final approach. The aircraft then struck terrain and came to rest short of the intended landing runway. The airplane was destroyed in the accident sequence. No other occupants were aboard.
Investigation Findings
The official investigation determined the probable cause of the accident to be poor judgment and improper IFR operation, which led to the airplane crashing on final approach. Contributing factors reported by investigators include: low ceiling, fog and snow, limited visibility, descent below MDA, a night VFR approach, and operation as a single-piloted aircraft.