What happened
While cruising at 10,000 feet mean sea level in instrument meteorological conditions, the pilot reported a complete loss of power. As the aircraft descended toward 2,000 feet, the engine restarted but failed multiple times before eventually maintaining idle for the remainder of the descent. Portland Approach Control provided vectors to the pilot during this phase. The aircraft broke out of clouds into light rain and snow at 300 feet above ground level, approximately 1,000 feet from the approach end of Runway 06.
During the final landing phase, the pilot intentionally skidded the aircraft to collapse the landing gear. This action was taken to prevent the aircraft from overrunning the runway due to insufficient braking capability or control authority.
The investigation
The pilot stated that freezing water in the alternate air system prevented the alternate air gate from operating. This blockage restricted sufficient airflow to the engine, leading to the power loss experienced during cruise.
Findings
- The aircraft was operated under instrument flight rules in icing conditions.
- Engine performance was compromised by ice accumulation in the alternate air intake.
- The pilot executed a controlled skid to mitigate runway overrun risk.
- No injuries were reported among occupants.