Piper PA-38-112 N2316P accident near Smithfield, Rhode Island

Probable cause

The pilot's improper descent below the published minimum descent altitude during the approach, which resulted in controlled flight into terrain.

NTSB analysis

The airplane approached the airport in night visual meteorological conditions, with an instrument-rated private pilot and a private-pilot-rated passenger. The pilot received clearance for a practice very-high-omnidirectional-range/global-positioning-system approach. At 1,900 feet mean sea level (msl) and prior to the final approach fix (FAF), the pilot was cleared for the practice approach and a frequency change was approved. There was no further communication with the accident flight. Radar data showed the accident flight on a ground track associated with the approach and in a steady descent from the FAF to 500 feet msl, or 80 feet above ground level (agl) and near the first tree strike. The accident occurred approximately 2/3 mile from the threshold of runway 33. The airplane was on the correct ground track for the approach when it initially struck trees approximately 80 feet agl. The minimum descent altitude for the approach was 980 feet msl, or 539 feet agl. No evidence of any preimpact mechanical discrepancies were found with the airframe or engine that would have prevented a successful completion of the approach. Recorded weather conditions at the airport near the time of the accident included a broken cloud layer at 8,000 feet, surface visibility 10 statute miles, and a surface wind from the northwest at 6 knots.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA09FA060 for the full record.