Nighttime approach accident involving aircraft near airport

1 fatality • Bradford, United States of America • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft struck trees during a night approach under instrument meteorological conditions, resulting in a debris path along a 320-degree magnetic track.

What happened

During a night flight conducted under instrument meteorological conditions, the pilot was performing an ILS approach on a magnetic inbound course of 322 degrees. The aircraft crossed the glideslope outer marker at an altitude of 3,333 feet MSL. The airport elevation for the destination was 2,143 feet MSL, with a established decision altitude of 2,370 feet MSL.

As the flight progressed, the aircraft impacted trees located approximately 300 feet southeast of the outer marker at an elevation of roughly 2,200 feet MSL. This impact initiated a wreckage trail measuring approximately 370 feet in length. The debris path followed a magnetic track of 320 degrees.

Findings

Post-accident inspections of the aircraft revealed no mechanical anomalies were present. The investigation focused on the approach parameters and environmental conditions present at the time of the tree strike.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 2002-10-03 Piper PA-60 Aerostar (Ted Smith 600) accident near Bradford, United States of America?

An aircraft struck trees during a night approach under instrument meteorological conditions, resulting in a debris path along a 320-degree magnetic track.

Were there any fatalities in the 2002-10-03 Piper PA-60 Aerostar (Ted Smith 600) accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 1 fatality.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2002-10-03 involved a Piper PA-60 Aerostar (Ted Smith 600), registration N700DJ, operated by Poke Aire, at Bradford, United States of America.

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