What happened
While operating in IMC cruise flight at 4,000 feet, the Cessna 310R encountered occasional light rime ice within the clouds. In response, the pilot activated the aircraft's anti-ice and deicing systems. During the subsequent descent, the pilot reported that conditions had transitioned to VFR and that the airframe was clear of ice.
The pilot intended to perform a visual approach to the runway. Due to the anticipation that the runway surface might be slick, the pilot executed a short field approach and landing. While on final approach, at an airspeed of 85 knots, the aircraft experienced a sudden loss of lift. The airplane struck the terrain approximately 50 feet short of the runway. The pilot noted that there were no visual or aural indications of an impending stall prior to the impact.
The investigation
The investigation reviewed the aircraft's performance capabilities and weight. According to the operating handbook, the minimum multi-engine approach speed for this aircraft is 93 KIAS at a gross weight of 5,400 pounds, with a reduction of approximately four knots for every 400-pound decrease in gross weight. At the time of the accident, the airplane's gross weight was approximately 5,218 pounds.