On March 13, 1994, a Piper PA-32RT-300 (registration N83JF) was involved in an aviation accident near Harbor Springs, MI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S IMPROPER DECISION TO CONTINUE FLIGHT INTO ICING CONDITIONS AFTER THE CONDITIONS WERE FIRST ENCOUNTERED. A FACTOR RELATED TO THE ACCIDENT WAS THE TREES CONTACTED DURING THE LANDING ROLL. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During a VOR approach, a pilot encountered heavy icing at 4,000 feet and below, contrary to a briefing that mentioned possible icing only at 6,000 feet. Unable to maintain altitude, the pilot performed an off-airport landing, contacting trees.
Weather Briefing
The pilot received a preflight weather briefing that indicated a possible chance of light icing at 6,000 feet.
Flight and Icing Encounter
During the flight, at altitudes of 4,000 feet and below, the aircraft accumulated heavy ice. The pilot attempted a VOR approach to the intended airport but was unable to locate it. He then turned back toward the airport in an effort to establish visual contact.
Loss of Altitude and Landing
The pilot reported that due to the amount of ice on the airplane, he was unable to maintain altitude even with full power applied. An off-airport landing was initiated, during which the aircraft contacted trees.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in the 13 Mar 1994 Piper PA-32RT-300 accident near Harbor Springs, MI?
During a VOR approach, a pilot encountered heavy icing at 4,000 feet and below, contrary to a briefing that mentioned possible icing only at 6,000 feet. Unable to maintain altitude, the pilot performed an off-airport landing, contacting trees.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 13 Mar 1994 involved a Piper PA-32RT-300, registration N83JF, at Harbor Springs, MI.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
THE PILOT'S IMPROPER DECISION TO CONTINUE FLIGHT INTO ICING CONDITIONS AFTER THE CONDITIONS WERE FIRST ENCOUNTERED. A FACTOR RELATED TO THE ACCIDENT WAS THE TREES CONTACTED DURING THE LANDING ROLL.