Flight and Approach
The aircraft departed Miami at night on an on-demand air taxi flight to Fort Myers, Florida. During arrival, the flight encountered instrument flight rules (IFR) conditions. The pilot obtained clearance for an ILS runway 06 approach and was instructed to report at the outer marker (OM). At 0152:25 EST, the pilot reported to Miami Center that he was over the OM. This was his last transmission to an air traffic control facility.
Unicom Communication
At about 0203 EST, the pilot made a transmission on the UNICOM frequency to inform airport operations personnel that he could not get the approach lights to operate. He was asked if he had used the proper frequency and had keyed the microphone the required number of times. The pilot indicated that he had properly keyed the microphone; however, UNICOM personnel did not hear any keying except for two clicks.
Impact
The aircraft contacted the ground in a nearly level attitude with the landing gear extended, approximately 1.5 miles short of runway 06. It then skidded about 90 feet and struck a tree before coming to rest. No preimpact part failure or malfunction was found with the aircraft, engine, or approach and runway lights.
Weather Conditions
The 0149 EST weather observation at Fort Myers included: sky obscured, visibility 1/4 mile with fog.
Injuries and Fatalities
While the pilot was seriously injured, the passenger was killed.
Probable Cause
The official probable cause stated: Failure of the pilot to properly follow the IFR procedure and to identify the decision height. Factors related to the accident were: the adverse weather conditions, darkness, the pilot's lack of visual perception without the approach lights, and tree(s) in the accident area.