FlightFinder
Check my flight
Casualties unknown

Forced Landing in a Field Due to Icing (N427KP)

Cumberland, WI, US

On January 12, 2005, a Piper PA-32R-300 (registration N427KP) was involved in an aviation accident near Cumberland, WI. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot could not maintain altitude or airspeed due to airframe icing as a result of the pilot flying into known adverse weather and failing to comply with the airplane's icing limitation . 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 2026-09-03Data APIEditorial standards

A private pilot encountered icing during a flight, causing a loss of airspeed and control. The aircraft sustained substantial damage during a forced landing in a field near an airport.

Incident Overview and Weather Conditions A private pilot reported receiving a weather briefing at 0615, which included an AIRMET for icing and instrument meteorological conditions along the planned route. Despite the advisory, the pilot noted that initial reports indicated only light icing and layers between clouds with no moisture. Approximately thirty minutes after departure, the pilot observed light mixed icing on the wings. The aircraft was unable to maintain its intended climb to a cruising altitude of 11,000 feet, with airspeed dropping from 130 knots to 120 knots. The pilot subsequently requested to divert to a nearby airport equipped with an instrument approach.

Icing

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 12 Jan 2005 Piper PA-32R-300 accident near Cumberland, WI?

A private pilot encountered icing during a flight, causing a loss of airspeed and control. The aircraft sustained substantial damage during a forced landing in a field near an airport.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 12 Jan 2005 involved a Piper PA-32R-300, registration N427KP, at Cumberland, WI.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The pilot could not maintain altitude or airspeed due to airframe icing as a result of the pilot flying into known adverse weather and failing to comply with the airplane's icing limitation . Factors included the icing conditions and the ice accumulation on the aircraft.

More accident analyses

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20050201X00121. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.