Accident Overview
A twin-engine airplane struck two approach light towers during final approach to runway 09 at Pontiac-Oakland County Airport. The aircraft then lost height and crashed, bursting into flames. All three occupants were killed.
Sequence of Events
On approach to runway 09, the pilot encountered poor visibility due to low ceiling and fog. On final approach, the airplane struck two 40-foot approach light towers located 2,400 feet and 2,200 feet from the approach end of the runway. Following the collisions, the airplane lost height and crashed, erupting in flames.
Cause and Contributing Factors
The official investigation determined the probable cause to be a collision with wires or poles on final approach due to improper instrument flight rules (IFR) operation. Contributing factors reported by investigators included low ceiling, fog, visibility down to zero, and weather conditions below minimums.