Flight History
The accident sequence began when the airplane was descending from an altitude of 8,100 feet. At that point, the pilot observed the accumulation of structural ice on the airframe. The flight was subsequently cleared by air traffic control to descend to 5,100 feet. Throughout the descent, the ice accretion continued.
To counteract the effects of the ice, the pilot increased engine power in an attempt to maintain altitude. Despite this action, during the final approach segment for runway 05, the airplane was unable to sustain its altitude and eventually collided with terrain.
Pilot Statement
The pilot reported that there were no mechanical or flight control malfunctions prior to the accident. The aircraft had been functioning normally aside from the icing encounter.
Weather Information
Prior to the flight, the pilot obtained a full weather briefing from the Saint Petersburg Flight Service Station. The briefing included information indicating that icing conditions were present at the destination airport.