FlightFinder
Check my flight
1 fatality

Pilot Reports Ice Accumulation During Approach, Aircraft Impacts Field (N9964T)

Newphiladelphia, OH, US

On November 17, 2002, a Cessna 182D (registration N9964T) was involved in an aviation accident near Newphiladelphia, OH. One person was killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's improper decision to disregard the weather briefing, and to conduct an intentional flight into known icing conditions, with an airplane not equipped for that flight, and his failure to maintain airspeed. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

During approach, pilot reported ice accumulation on airplane. Unable to climb, initiated missed approach, then radar contact lost. Aircraft found nose-down in field with ice on stabilizer; pilot had diphenhydramine in system.

Accident Sequence

While on approach, the pilot reported that the airplane had accumulated ice. When asked if he wanted to climb to a higher altitude, the pilot stated that he did not believe he could climb. He then initiated a missed approach and subsequently disappeared from radar. The airplane impacted in a nose-down attitude in an open field with brush.

Weather and Icing

The pilot had received two weather briefings prior to departure, which included advisories for icing conditions along his route of flight. En route, he reported icing conditions, and then again while on approach. The airplane was not equipped with any de-icing equipment; the only anti-ice equipment was a heated pitot tube. A State Trooper reported ice adhering to the vertical stabilizer when he first arrived on scene.

Aircraft and Pilot Information

No evidence of a pre-existing failure or malfunction was found with the engine or airframe. The drug diphenhydramine was found in the pilot's blood and liver.

IcingWeather

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 17 Nov 2002 Cessna 182D accident near Newphiladelphia, OH?

During approach, pilot reported ice accumulation on airplane. Unable to climb, initiated missed approach, then radar contact lost. Aircraft found nose-down in field with ice on stabilizer; pilot had diphenhydramine in system.

Were there any fatalities in the 17 Nov 2002 Cessna 182D accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 1 fatality.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 17 Nov 2002 involved a Cessna 182D, registration N9964T, at Newphiladelphia, OH.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot's improper decision to disregard the weather briefing, and to conduct an intentional flight into known icing conditions, with an airplane not equipped for that flight, and his failure to maintain airspeed. Factors were the clouds and icing conditions, and the pilot's impairment due to drugs.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20021127X05536. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.