On May 3, 2005, a Cessna T210N (registration N106PM) operated by Penelope H. White was involved in an aviation accident near Kalispell, MT. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Loss of aircraft control during climb while in instrument meteorological conditions. Icing conditions was a factor. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
Approximately 15 minutes after takeoff, an aircraft lost radar and radio communications while climbing to an assigned altitude of 13,000 feet. It entered a descending right turn after reaching 12,000 feet. Widespread IFR conditions and icing were present; the aircraft was not certified for icing. Post-accident examination found no pre-impact mechanical issues.
Incident Timeline
Approximately 15 minutes after departure, while the aircraft was climbing to an air traffic control assigned altitude of 13,000 feet, radar and radio communications were lost. Radar data indicated that the airplane subsequently began a descending right turn shortly before it disappeared from radar coverage. The descending turn initiated shortly after the aircraft reached an altitude of 12,000 feet.
Weather and Conditions
Weather data indicated widespread areas of instrument flight rules (IFR) conditions. Forecasts and pilot reports indicated the presence of icing conditions along the intended route of flight. The airplane was not certified for operation in icing conditions.
Post-Accident Examination
Examination of the wreckage after the accident revealed no evidence of any pre-impact mechanical malfunction or irregularity with the airplane that could have contributed to the event.