Crash of a Cessna 402B in Greenville: 6 killed

Date & Time: May 11, 1973 at 1800 LT
Type of aircraft:
Operator:
Registration:
N2985Q
Survivors:
No
Schedule:
Concord - Greenville
MSN:
402B-0242
YOM:
1972
Crew on board:
2
Crew fatalities:
Pax on board:
4
Pax fatalities:
Other fatalities:
Total fatalities:
6
Captain / Total flying hours:
4471
Captain / Total hours on type:
290.00
Circumstances:
The crew started the descent to Greenville Airport in poor weather conditions with fog and limited visibility. On final approach, the pilot-in-command passed below the glide and below the MDA fixed at 2,200 feet, probably to establish a visual contact with the ground. While descending to an altitude of 1,400 feet, the twin engine airplane struck trees and crashed in a wooded area located few miles short of runway. The aircraft was destroyed and all six occupants were killed.
Probable cause:
Improper IFR operation on part of the crew. The following factors were reported:
- High obstructions,
- Low ceiling, fog,
- Descended below MDA at 2,200 feet,
- Hit trees at 1,400 feet,
- Witnesses reported hillside was in fog about halfway up.
Final Report: