The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has released the results of its preliminary investigation into a fatal plane crash in Harlan County earlier this month.
The NTSB found that heavy fog “restricted visibility to about 175 feet” at the time of the crash, which occurred at 10:09 a.m. Additionally, the NTSB said: “At the time of the accident, a Notice to Air Mission (NOTAM) was in effect noting that all airport lighting was unserviceable (out of service).”
Sanford was on his third approach to the airport when the aircraft “impacted a ravine and steep rock wall about 50 feet below and 375 feet before the runway …,” the report states.
According to a “pilot-rated witness” at the airport at the time of the accident, Sanford’s initial approach appeared “too high,” with his second approach “too low.” The witness, though, only heard and never saw the aircraft due to the heavy fog.
Sanford, an experienced pilot and ophthalmologist connected to Appalachian Regional Healthcare hospital in Middlesboro, frequently traveled to Harlan and Middlesboro to treat patients.
By Ken Howlett, News Director
Contact Ken at ken@k105.com
