Pilots' Altimeter Error Leads to Critical Situation at LCK Airport
Two pilots, a student and an instructor, found themselves in a critical situation while conducting an instrument approach at LCK airport. They forgot to reset their altimeter, leading to a descent below the minimum safe altitude.
The pilots were attempting a LOC 23L approach when they passed the final approach fix (FAF). Instead of descending to the required 2,000 feet MSL, their aircraft descended to just 1,220 feet MSL, triggering a low altitude alert from Air Traffic Control (ATC).
This error occurred because the pilots had not reset their altimeter to the correct setting of 30.16 inches of mercury, as provided by the latest ATIS information. Had they updated their weather information and announced the new setting during their approach briefing, this mistake might have been prevented. Upon receiving the low altitude alert, the pilots promptly executed a missed approach, ensuring their safety and that of other air traffic in the area.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of accurate altimeter settings during instrument approaches, especially at non-towered airports where ATC cannot monitor altitude. Pilots must ensure they reset their altimeters to the correct setting and use approach briefings as an opportunity to double-check this crucial detail. Failure to do so can result in dangerous descents below minimum safe altitudes.
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