Flight Profile
The aircraft was operated at altitudes up to 15,000 ft in areas where icing was forecast. It was not equipped with oxygen. The aircraft remained above 14,000 ft for approximately 20 minutes before descending into icing conditions.
Icing and Descent
Shortly after entering the icing conditions, the aircraft made a climb under air traffic control directions. Radar subsequently showed it making a rapid descent. The pilot informed the controller that the aircraft had accumulated about half an inch of rime ice.
Loss of Contact
Radar contact was lost shortly after a readout at 10,400 ft. Further attempts at communication with the aircraft were unsuccessful.
Wreckage Examination
The aircraft was later found where it had crashed. It impacted in a steep, vertically banked dive at a high rate of speed. Investigators found rime ice in the snow next to the elevator counterweight. The elevator trim was found in a nose-up position.
Equipment
The aircraft was equipped with deicing and anti-icing equipment as well as an autopilot.