Fatal Business Flight Crash in Cody, Wyoming (N2336X)

Incident Overview and Flight Details On a business flight to Cody, Wyoming, aircraft N2336X was involved in a fatal accident. The pilot initiated a missed approach during the first attempt at a VOR-A approach. A pilot who landed at the airport shortly before the accident reported that visibility had dropped to three-quarters of a mile during the initial approach and approximately one-half mile at the time of the crash. The official approach minimums for the airport were 5,800 feet and one mile of visibility. All three occupants on board were killed in the incident. ## Wreckage Examination and Weather Conditions An examination of the wreckage showed no evidence of mechanical malfunction or failure prior to the accident. The aircraft's servo arm was found in the full up position. The aircraft struck the terrain in a steep, nose-low attitude on a heading opposite to its direction of flight. The official investigation identified several contributing factors, including weather conditions below approach and landing minimums, a low ceiling, and snow. The pilot in command was also cited for improper in-flight planning and decision-making, as well as improper IFR procedures. Additionally, the pilot failed to maintain airspeed, leading to a loss of control in flight. The final phase of the accident was an uncontrolled descent resulting in a collision with terrain.