Primary finding
Probable cause
the pilot's failure to maintain the glide slope and becoming distracted by a passenger.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot stated that while on final approach during an ILS approach he became distracted by the passenger and the airplane collided with water.
Source record
Factual narrative
On February 21, 1996, about 1015 eastern standard time, a Piper PA-30, N8740Y, registered to a private owner crashed into Tampa Bay while on approach for the St. Petersburg/Clearwater International Airport, St. Petersburg, Florida. Instrument meteorological conditions prevailed at the time and an IFR flight plan was filed for the 14 CFR Part 91 personal flight. The commercial-rated pilot and one passenger received minor injuries and the airplane was substantially damaged. The flight had originated from Foley, Alabama, about 0700, the same day. The pilot had requested and received clearance for the ILS approach into the St. Petersburg International Airport due to adverse weather. While on final approach the airplane crashed into Tampa Bay. The pilot stated that his attention was distracted by the passenger. -