Synopsis
An aircraft collided with the ground while conducting an Instrument Landing System (ILS) approach under instrument meteorological conditions (IMC). The pilot, who held an instrument rating, had filed an IFR flight plan and received a weather briefing that included forecasts of icing and freezing drizzle. Despite the forecast, the pilot expressed to the briefer that it did not sound too bad, to which the briefer responded that it was not that great. The pilot elected to proceed with the flight.
Flight and Weather Details
After departing, the aircraft climbed to 8,000 feet and began to accumulate structural icing. The pilot attempted to avoid the icing by descending to a lower altitude, but this was unsuccessful. Approximately 50 minutes after the initial departure, at the suggestion of Green Bay Air Traffic Control Tower (ATCT), the pilot accepted vectors for an ILS approach to Austin Straubel Airport.
Approach and Accident
During the approach, the pilot could not see the runway at decision height due to ice accumulating on the windshield. Vectors were provided for another approach attempt. The pilot expressed hope of seeing out of the side window. At decision height on the second approach, the pilot observed the runway to the left through the side window. According to the pilot, he initiated a left turn, at which point the right wing dropped and the aircraft descended. The aircraft came to rest approximately 500 feet short of the runway and 100 to 150 feet right of the centerline.