Aircraft Destroyed in Icing-Related Accident (N9085Q)

Operational Context and Weather Information The briefer advised the pilot of an AIRMET for significant weather phenomena, specifically icing occasionally moderate rime or mixed from the freezing level up through flight level two zero zero. The pilot was operating in conditions that later contributed to the accident. ## Pilot-Controller Communications According to Air Route Traffic Control Center transcripts, the pilot contacted the controller at 1011 and reported being at 10,700 feet MSL. The pilot stated he was attempting to climb, had a little bit of ice, and was having trouble climbing. At 1015, the pilot stated that he may need to make a landing. The pilot also stated that he had ice and was in instrument meteorological conditions. ## Emergency Declaration and Loss of Contact At 1022:17, the pilot declared an emergency. Following this declaration, radar and radio communications were lost. The airplane was destroyed by a post-impact fire. ## Aircraft Systems and Regulatory Findings An examination of the airplane's systems revealed no anomalies. The accident aircraft was not equipped with anti-icing or de-icing equipment. The pilot operating handbook states that flight in icing conditions is prohibited. According to Title 14 CFR Part 91.527(b), except for an airplane that has ice protection provisions, no pilot may fly under IFR into known or forecast moderate icing conditions.