Crash of a Piper PA-61 Aerostar (Ted Smith 601) in Coatesville: 2 killed
Date & Time:
Jan 10, 2000 at 0519 LT
Registration:
N905DK
Survivors:
No
Schedule:
Millville – Coatesville
MSN:
61-0308-081
YOM:
1976
Crew on board:
1
Crew fatalities:
Pax on board:
1
Pax fatalities:
Other fatalities:
Total fatalities:
2
Circumstances:
While operating in IMC, the pilot was vectored to the final approach course for an ILS approach. Weather at the airport was ceiling 200 feet and visibility 3/4 mile in mist. The pilot was cleared for the approach, which he acknowledged. No other transmissions were received from the accident airplane. Radar data showed the airplane intercept the final approach course, then track inbound. The airplane crossed the outer marker 420 feet below the glide slope. The last radar return showed the airplane at 440 feet agl, 3.9 miles from the runway. The airplane impacted the ground at a shallow angle about 1 mile north of the airport on the opposite side of the missed approach procedure. The elevation of the accident site was approximately 40 feet lower than the airport. The pilot had about 350 hours of total flight
experience. No pre-impact failures were identified with the airframe, engines, flight controls, or flight instruments.
experience. No pre-impact failures were identified with the airframe, engines, flight controls, or flight instruments.
Probable cause:
The pilot's failure to follow the published instrument approach procedure, and his failure to establish a climb after passing the missed approach point.
Final Report:
