What happened
During a nighttime cargo operation originating from College Station, a twin engine airplane was performing its final approach to the runway. While descending toward the threshold, the aircraft impacted a line of trees located a short distance from the landing area. The impact occurred during the approach phase of flight.
As a result of the collision, there were two fatalities among the occupants, including the pilot and one passenger. A second passenger sustained serious injuries during the accident.
Findings
Investigations into the crash identified that the aircraft struck trees because of improper IFR operation during the approach. Several environmental and physiological factors were noted as contributing to the event:
- Extremely limited visibility, measured at two miles or less
- Presence of fog and snow
- Low cloud ceiling
- Pilot fatigue, following a period of extended work hours prior to the four-hour flight