Investigation Summary
The flight was a charter returning the Marshall University Thundering Herd from a game against East Carolina University. During the localizer approach to Runway 11, the crew encountered adverse weather with a low ceiling and restricted visibility. Despite not having the runway environment in sight, the aircraft continued its descent past the MDA of 1,240 feet MSL. The NTSB investigation focused on why the crew allowed the aircraft to descend nearly 300 feet below the required altitude. Two primary theories emerged: a visual illusion caused by the bright lights of a nearby refinery at a different elevation than the airport, or a mechanical error in the altimetry system. Cockpit voice recordings suggested the crew believed they were at the correct altitude when they were actually dangerously low. Just before impact, the crew appeared to realize their position and initiated a go-around, but the aircraft struck trees on a ridge at 922 feet MSL, stalled, and crashed inverted.
Final Conclusions
The NTSB determined the probable cause was the descent below the Minimum Descent Altitude during a non-precision approach without visual contact with the runway. While the exact reason for the unauthorized descent could not be definitively proven, the board cited improper use of cockpit instrumentation or an undetected altimetry system error as the most likely factors. The board also noted that 'off route' charter operations at the time did not require the same level of airport-specific qualification as scheduled service.
Video Analysis
No video analysis linked for this case file yet.
Airframe & Maintenance
Systems & Failure Modes
Altimetry System
The NTSB investigated whether water seepage or mechanical error caused the altimeters to over-read the aircraft's actual height.
Localizer Approach
A non-precision approach providing lateral guidance but no vertical glide slope, requiring pilots to manually manage altitude.
Interesting Facts
- 01The crash resulted in the deaths of 37 Marshall University football players and 5 coaches.
- 02The aircraft struck trees at an elevation of 922 feet MSL, while the MDA was 1,240 feet MSL.
- 03Weather at the time included scattered clouds at 300 feet and a solid overcast at 1,000 feet with mist.
- 04The flight was the only charter flight for the Marshall football team that year.
- 05The accident occurred just 43 days after the Wichita State University football team plane crash.
- 06The aircraft involved (MSN 47245/510) was manufactured in 1969.
Safety Actions & Advisories
GPWS Implementation
The NTSB recommended the development and mandatory installation of ground proximity warning devices to alert crews of impending terrain impact.
Heads-Up Display Research
The board recommended the evaluation of heads-up displays to assist pilots during the transition from instrument to visual flight.
Charter Operation Oversight
Recommendations were made for increased surveillance and inspection of flight operations, particularly for non-scheduled charter flights.