VFR Flight Diverts to IFR in Wyoming Weather Results in Forced Landing

Casualties unknown • Cheyenne, WY, US

A pilot flying VFR encountered IMC near Grand Junction, Colorado, and obtained an IFR clearance to land at Cheyenne, Wyoming. During the approach in severe weather with heavy ice accumulation, the aircraft descended below the glideslope before attempting a missed approach.

What happened

The pilot and two passengers were operating a visual flight rules (VFR) cross-country flight destined for Scottsbluff, Nebraska. While flying near Grand Junction, Colorado, the crew encountered instrument meteorological conditions (IMC). The pilot contacted air traffic control and successfully obtained an instrument flight rules clearance to divert to Cheyenne, Wyoming.

Upon arrival in the Cheyenne area, weather reports indicated 500-foot overcast ceilings with 1/4 mile visibility. Additional conditions included 1-mile tower visibility, light rain, light snow, and fog. During the descent toward the initial approach fix (IAF), the aircraft accumulated heavy ice. The pilot requested radar vectors to the final approach fix (FAF) from air traffic control; however, this request was denied because radar service was not available at Cheyenne.

With full power applied, the aircraft descended below the glideslope. The pilot reported that the aircraft suddenly began to climb, prompting an immediate missed approach execution. Following the initiation of the missed approach, the aircraft began to stall and lose altitude. Consequently, the pilot executed an emergency off-airport forced landing.

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain control during a missed approach in instrument meteorological conditions with heavy ice accumulation, which resulted in a stall and loss of altitude.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1986-11-07 Piper PA-32-301T accident near Cheyenne, WY?

A pilot flying VFR encountered IMC near Grand Junction, Colorado, and obtained an IFR clearance to land at Cheyenne, Wyoming. During the approach in severe weather with heavy ice accumulation, the aircraft descended below the glideslope before attempting a missed approach.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1986-11-07 involved a Piper PA-32-301T, registration N8216V, operated by Vladimir Riha, at Cheyenne, WY.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's failure to maintain control during a missed approach in instrument meteorological conditions with heavy ice accumulation, which resulted in a stall and loss of altitude.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X35152. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.

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