What happened
During the final approach phase to Jackson-Allen C. Thompson Airport, an aircraft was established on the localizer when it suddenly became uncontrollable. The plane struck a field situated approximately 1.2 miles before reaching the runway threshold. The accident resulted in one fatality and left the pilot with serious injuries.
Findings
The investigation determined that the crash occurred because the pilot proceeded into regions known to contain intense atmospheric instability. Several environmental factors contributed to the loss of control, including:
- Significant thunderstorm activity in the area
- Presence of windshear and heavy turbulence linked to cloud formations
- Intense downdrafts and updrafts
- Wind gusts reaching 25 knots
Crucially, the pilot had been notified via pilot reports (PIREPs) regarding the existence of severe windshear and turbulent conditions in the immediate vicinity of the airport prior to the impact.