Incident Overview
Two instrument-rated pilots were conducting a checkout flight, intended to familiarize the first pilot with the aircraft model. The weather conditions at the time included temperatures near freezing, low ceilings, and low visibility in precipitation. The first pilot filed an IFR flight plan for a 30-minute local flight.
Flight Details
After becoming airborne, the flight twice amended its cruise altitude and twice changed its destination. The aircraft eventually returned to the origin airport for an approach. During the flight, the pilot reported having "quite a bit of ice" before receiving clearance for the approach.
Final Maneuver and Impact
The aircraft, configured to land, entered a shallow descent while circling from the approach course to the opposite runway. It subsequently flew into trees in an upright attitude. Examination of the engine controls revealed they were in the full forward position, and evidence indicated that engine power was present at the time of impact.