Accident Details
The aircraft was descending to Hot Springs Airport when the crew encountered poor weather conditions, including low ceiling, rain, and fog. The pilot-in-command was unable to locate the runway and initiated a go-around. A second landing attempt was also abandoned a few minutes later.
During a third approach, the pilot-in-command descended below the minimum descent altitude (MDA). The aircraft struck the ground 150 feet short of the runway, went out of control, and crashed on the right side of the runway. A fire occurred after impact.
The aircraft had six occupants, including two Japanese citizens. All six were killed.
Official Findings
The probable cause was determined to be improper IFR operation on the part of the crew. Contributing factors reported were: low ceiling, rain and fog; fire after impact; and the crew descending below MDA on the third attempt during a non-glide-slope approach.