Accident Overview
An aircraft conducting an instrument flight under night instrument meteorological conditions (IMC) impacted a building during an instrument landing system (ILS) approach. The postimpact fire consumed both the building and the aircraft. Examination revealed no evidence of mechanical malfunction or failure.
Background
The pilot was flying to the destination airport under IMC and initially contacted the approach control facility. After being cleared for an ILS approach, the controller twice advised the pilot that the aircraft was to the right of the approach course and suggested a left turn of 5 to 7 degrees. The pilot corrected back to the inbound course, and the controller instructed the pilot to contact the tower controller. The pilot did not contact the tower but later reestablished communication with the approach controller.
Approach Attempts
The approach controller provided radar vectors for a second ILS approach. During this attempt, the controller again advised that the aircraft was to the right of the course and issued a low altitude alert. The aircraft began a climb and turn back toward the inbound course. The controller informed the pilot that the aircraft would intercept the inbound course at the locator outer marker (LOM) and asked if the pilot wanted to abort and try again. The pilot declined and stated he would continue the approach. No further transmissions were received.
Impact
The aircraft impacted a building located approximately 0.4 nautical miles from the LOM. The building and the aircraft were almost completely consumed by the postimpact fire.
Investigation Findings
The postaccident examination found no evidence of mechanical malfunction or failure. The aircraft's turning ground track and the challenging visibility conditions during the instrument approach were conducive to the onset of pilot spatial disorientation.