On January 11, 1985, a Cessna C-207 (registration N7396U) was involved in an aviation accident near Nome, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain sufficient altitude during a visual approach in freezing precipitation, which resulted in ice accumulation on the aircraft. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A Cessna aircraft impacted terrain approximately five miles west of Nome Airport while attempting a left-circle approach under low visibility and freezing conditions.
What happened
The pilot obtained a special VFR clearance to land at Nome Airport. Upon seeing the approach lights, the pilot initiated a left circle to align with the runway. The pilot reported that the ceiling was 300 feet above ground level with low visibility and freezing drizzle present. Approximately three-eighths of an inch of ice had accumulated on the airframe and windshield. The pilot stated, "I failed to maintain sufficient altitude..." The aircraft contacted level terrain approximately five miles west of the airport.
The investigation
The investigation examined the flight conditions and the pilot's account of the approach. The pilot reported that the ceiling was 300 feet above ground level with low visibility and freezing drizzle present. Approximately three-eighths of an inch of ice had accumulated on the airframe and windshield.
Findings
The Cessna aircraft impacted terrain during a visual approach in instrument meteorological conditions. The pilot failed to maintain sufficient altitude while maneuvering in freezing drizzle. 1 fatal, 0 injured.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain sufficient altitude during a visual approach in freezing precipitation, which resulted in ice accumulation on the aircraft.
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