Incident Overview
A pilot conducting a dark night instrument meteorological conditions (IMC) cross-country flight was being vectored onto an instrument landing system (ILS) approach. After stabilizing, the approach was described as normal. Upon reaching decision altitude, the pilot reported seeing the approach lights and the runway but determined he was not in a position to land, and subsequently executed a missed approach.
Second Approach and Descent
After being vectored around for a second approach, the pilot stated that he was on the localizer but was "high" on the glide slope. He applied "a little" nose-down pitch, but became distracted when the autopilot "accidentally disengaged." The pilot reported that he "inadvertently descended through the glide slope and impacted the ground short of the runway." He further stated that the "first indication" that he was low was when the aircraft "struck the ground."
Damage and Investigation
The aircraft was destroyed on impact. A facility check conducted by the FAA of the ILS found all parameters within normal specifications.
Probable Cause
The official probable cause, as stated by the investigation, was the pilot's failure to maintain the proper glidepath during the instrument approach. Contributing factors were the dark night light conditions and the pilot's diverted attention.