On November 26, 1994, a Piper PA-44-180 (registration N2127D) was involved in an aviation accident near Dickinson, ND. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE FLIGHT INSTRUCTOR (CFI) MISJUDGED THE FLARE, WHICH RESULTED IN A HARD LANDING. FACTORS RELATED TO THE ACCIDENT WERE: THE ADVERSE WEATHER (ICING) CONDITION, STRUCTURAL ICE, WINDSHIELD ICE, DARKNESS, AND THE LACK OF VISUAL CUES FOR THE PILOT TO LAND. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During a night flight, ice accumulated on the aircraft structure and windshield. The instructor diverted, landed using instruments and side window, resulting in a hard landing that damaged the airplane.
Flight Events
A night flight was underway when the airplane began to accumulate ice on its structure and windshield. In response, the instructor requested an altitude change and diverted the flight to an alternate airport.
Ice Accumulation
As the flight progressed, the windshield became entirely covered with ice. This condition necessitated alternative methods for landing.
Landing
The instructor landed the airplane by relying on flight instruments and by looking out the side window, as the forward view was obstructed by ice.
Damage
The landing was hard, resulting in damage to the airplane.