On November 23, 1990, a Cessna 172M (registration N9086H) operated by Air National Guard Aero Inc was involved in an aviation accident near Perham, ME. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT INITIATING FLIGHT INTO KNOWN ICING CONDITIONS WHICH RESULTED IN AN ACCUMULATION OF AIRFRAME ICE AND A FAILURE TO MAINTAIN AIRSPEED. THE CONTRIBUTING FACTOR WAS THE EXISTING ICING CONDITIONS. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot made two VOR approaches in forecast icing with freezing level at surface. After a second missed approach, the aircraft descended rapidly from 2000 to 1200 feet in 8 seconds and was found with 1/8-inch ice coverage on large surfaces.
Background
The pilot received two weather briefings prior to departure that included forecasts of icing conditions. The intended destination airport was the site of subsequent approach attempts.
Flight Details
Upon arrival, the pilot executed two VOR approaches. During these approaches, the freezing level was reported at the surface and light drizzle was present. After the second missed approach, the pilot requested vectors to return to the originating airport. According to the controller, the airplane was last seen on radar descending from 2000 feet to 1200 feet in approximately 8 seconds.
Findings
When the airplane was located, large surface areas were covered with ice measuring 1/8 inch in thickness. No evidence of ice was observed on the surrounding terrain.
What happened in the 23 Nov 1990 Cessna 172M accident near Perham, ME?
A pilot made two VOR approaches in forecast icing with freezing level at surface. After a second missed approach, the aircraft descended rapidly from 2000 to 1200 feet in 8 seconds and was found with 1/8-inch ice coverage on large surfaces.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 23 Nov 1990 involved a Cessna 172M, registration N9086H, operated by Air National Guard Aero Inc, at Perham, ME.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
THE PILOT INITIATING FLIGHT INTO KNOWN ICING CONDITIONS WHICH RESULTED IN AN ACCUMULATION OF AIRFRAME ICE AND A FAILURE TO MAINTAIN AIRSPEED. THE CONTRIBUTING FACTOR WAS THE EXISTING ICING CONDITIONS.
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