What happened
During the final approach phase of the flight, the aircraft was being vectored for an ILS runway 10 approach. Approximately three miles from the runway, air traffic control instructed the pilot to perform a missed approach due to insufficient separation from other traffic. The pilot acknowledged the instruction, but radar contact with the aircraft was lost shortly thereafter.
Eyewitnesses observed the aircraft descending from a low cloud layer prior to the impact. One observer noted that the wings were oscillating from side to side and that the aircraft appeared to be falling at a rate exceeding its forward velocity. Evidence at the scene indicated the aircraft struck the ground in a flat attitude with minimal forward momentum. The pilot, who was the sole occupant on board, was killed in the accident.
Findings
Investigation into the aircraft's loading revealed that the plane was operated at a gross weight of 11,979 lbs, with the center of gravity positioned 2.7 inches behind the aft limit. Regarding the cargo, investigators discovered that four cargo straps were loose without evidence of tensile overload, while an additional three straps and a restraining board were found loose, suggesting they had not been properly utilized.
At the time of the accident, wind conditions were recorded at 090 degrees at 21 knots, with gusts reaching 32 knots. No mechanical issues were identified prior to the impact, suggesting the improperly balanced weight and cargo configuration may have contributed to the loss of control.