NTSB Preliminary: Epic E1000 Descended Below MDA Near Steamboat Springs
An autopilot-coupled night approach with a published MDA and a known obstacle-rich visual segment is a high-risk profile for high-performance turboprops in mountainous terrain. Facts only; cause pending.
The NTSB released a preliminary report on the fatal accident of an Epic E1000 (N98FK) near Steamboat Springs Airport (KSBS), Colorado, on February 13, 2026. Operating Part 91 under IFR, the aircraft was cleared for the RNAV (GPS) Z RWY 32 approach. After acknowledging the clearance and a frequency change, no further communications were received. Recovered Garmin G1000 data showed the aircraft established on the approach but descending below the 9,100 ft msl MDA, with a last recorded 8,221 ft msl and autopilot engaged. It impacted Emerald Mountain at about 8,250 ft msl, roughly 3 nm south of the airport. The approach is not authorized at night and notes 'Visual Segment – Obstacles.' No probable cause determined.