Piper PA-28-181 N586MA accident near Altoona, Pennsylvania

Probable cause

The pilot’s descent below the glidepath and collision with trees during a missed approach.

NTSB analysis

The instrument-rated pilot had planned a cross-country flight with an intermediate fuel stop. While enroute, he noted that the weather conditions at the planned fuel stop airport had deteriorated, so he elected to divert to another airport. While performing an RNAV instrument approach to the diversionary airport, the pilot reported that he entered instrument meteorological conditions and experienced “some disorientation.” He described that the airplane may have deviated left of course and descended below the glidepath. The pilot subsequently decided to initiate a missed approach and applied full engine power. During the initial climb, the airplane contacted treetops but continued to climb. The pilot observed damage to the left wing and declared an emergency with air traffic control. The air traffic controller then provided the pilot with radar vectors to another airport, where the pilot completed an instrument approach and landed without further incident. A postaccident examination of the airplane revealed that the wings and horizontal stabilizer were substantially damaged. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA26LA307 for the full record.