Incident Overview
During an instrument flight rules (IFR) operation, a pilot received clearance from Fayetteville approach control for a VOR/DME approach to Rogers airport. The controller provided the local altimeter setting of 29.85 inches of mercury, a fact confirmed by recorded transcripts. However, the pilot did not read back this information.
Approach and Collision
While on final approach, the aircraft impacted trees at an altitude of approximately 1,320 feet mean sea level (MSL). The point of impact was located three miles short of the airport threshold, with the strike occurring 25 feet above ground level. Post-accident investigation revealed that the pilot’s altimeter was set to 30.14 inches of mercury. This incorrect setting caused the instrument to display an altitude 290 feet higher than the aircraft's actual position.
Pilot Testimony and Procedure Analysis
The pilot recalled that the 30.14 setting had been furnished by approach control, contradicting the recorded transcript. The last altitude reading remembered by the pilot was 1,750 feet. According to the approach plate, the minimum descent altitude (MDA) for Rogers is 1,700 feet MSL when using the local altimeter setting. If the Fayetteville setting were used, the MDA would increase by 100 feet. The pilot’s failure to follow proper IFR procedures and maintain accurate altimeter settings contributed to descending below safe minimums.
Casualties
The accident resulted in serious injuries to the pilot and the death of the passenger.