Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain proper altitude, and an inadequate visual lookout. Factors include weather below approach minimums, fog, drizzle, and a dark night.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The aircraft, which was on the final approach segment of a vor/dme approach, was seen just below the clouds, and less than 100 feet above the trees about one to two miles before the impact point. The ceiling around the time of the accident was approximately 270 feet lower than the minimum descent altitude (mda) for the approach. Witnesses reported that it was a dark night, and that drizzle and fog were being blown through the hills in the area of the impact. Witnesses who saw the aircraft just prior to the crash said that the engine sounds appeared normal and steady, and that the aircraft was flying nearly wings level. The pilot had told the air traffic controller that he intended to break out on this approach, and then proceed to a nearby airport which did not have a published instrument procedure.
Source record
Factual narrative
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