Flight and Weather Information
Before departure, the pilot was briefed on the forecast altitude of the freezing level and informed that the temperature at the departure airport was 15 degrees Fahrenheit above freezing. The flight departed and, while en route, encountered what the pilot described as light rime icing.
Incident Sequence
Following the icing encounter, the pilot requested clearance to return to the departure airport. The controller notified the pilot that an alternate airport with a non-precision instrument approach procedure was nearby, but the pilot chose to continue toward the departure airport on an assigned heading and requested a lower altitude. The controller cleared the flight to cruise at 2,500 feet. Subsequently, the airplane collided with an electrical tower and a 250 kV cable approximately 90 feet above ground level, then impacted the ground. The tower was located about 14.3 nautical miles and 266 degrees from the departure airport.
Aircraft Examination
Post-accident examination of the airframe and engine revealed no evidence of preimpact failure or malfunction. The airplane was not certificated for flight into icing conditions.