On February 9, 1994, a Cessna 320F (registration N618X) was involved in an aviation accident near Goshen, IN. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot-in-command's continued operation with known deficiencies in equipment. Factors were ice on the windshield and the pilot-in-commands visual outlook not possible. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During a VOR approach to Runway 9, the airplane exited clouds with ice on the windshield, limiting forward visibility. The pilot continued but could not see the runway or lights. The airplane descended below MDA and struck terrain 1/2 mile west and 200 feet right of the runway centerline. Ice was found on the vertical stabilizer leading edge the next day.
Approach and Visibility
The airplane broke out of clouds while executing a VOR approach to Runway 9. The windshield was covered with ice, which limited forward visibility. The pilot elected to continue the approach for landing.
Descent and Impact
The pilot was unable to acquire a visual sighting of the runway or runway lights. A pilot-rated passenger reported that the airplane descended below the minimum descent altitude (MDA). The airplane subsequently impacted terrain located 1/2 mile west and 200 feet to the right of the centerline of Runway 9.
Post-Accident Observations
The day after the accident, ice was noted on the leading edge of the vertical stabilizer.
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