BEECH A23 near Greene, NY — 2011-05-21

Probable cause

The pilot's decision to continue a visual approach with low visibility and in heavy rain and his subsequent failure to maintain clearance from trees.

NTSB narrative

The pilot stated that while attempting to land in heavy rain and with low visibility, the airplane collided with trees to the right side of the runway before descending and impacting the runway. The collision damaged the left wing, collapsed the landing gear, and substantially damaged the engine firewall. The pilot did not report any mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane prior to the accident. Although the nearest weather observation facility reported no precipitation and 10-mile visibility, it was located 28 miles from the accident location.

NTSB coding

• Controlled flight into terr/obj (CFIT) · Approach-VFR pattern final
• Planning / Preparation

Evidence available

• 2 docket documents

Docket documents2

• Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident Report, NTSB Form 6120.1form
• Reports from Federal Agencies; FAA Inspectors Statement.interview

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