Accident Description
The pilot was conducting the ILS runway 02 approach via the Gardner VOR transition. During the transition, the aircraft descended below the prescribed minimum altitude of 4,000 feet mean sea level (msl) to 2,600 feet msl. Air traffic control alerted the pilot, who responded that his chart indicated 3,000 feet. The aircraft subsequently climbed above 2,700 feet msl but later descended again to 1,500 feet msl, maintaining that altitude until approximately 2 miles outside the outer marker. The minimum published altitude to intercept the glide slope was 2,600 feet msl, and the recommended glide slope altitude for crossing the outer marker was 2,548 feet msl.
Before reaching the outer marker, the aircraft made an abrupt turn to the southwest, entered a steep descent, and crashed in a wooded area.
Aircraft and Systems Examination
Examination of the aircraft revealed no evidence of a malfunction. A flight inspection of the navigational aids indicated satisfactory operation. A post-mortem examination was inconclusive regarding possible physical impairment.
Approach and Navigation Information
The procedure turn altitude for the approach was 3,000 feet msl, but the Gardner transition did not require a procedure turn. The pilot was the sole occupant and was killed in the accident.
Probable Cause
The official probable cause is as follows: Occurrence #1: loss of control - in flight. Phase of operation: approach - IAF to FAF/outer marker (IFR). Findings: (1) IFR procedure - not followed - pilot in command; (2) directional control - not maintained - pilot in command; (3) proper altitude - not maintained - pilot in command. Occurrence #2: in flight collision with terrain/water.