What happened
On May 14, 2023, a Cessna T182T, registration N665B, crashed near Albany, Wyoming, resulting in 2 fatal injuries. The aircraft was being operated as a private flight under Part 91 regulations.
The flight originated from Fort Collins, Colorado, as part of a multi-day cross-country trip. The pilot had filed an IFR flight plan to Rock Springs, Wyoming. The weather briefing for the route included AIRMETs for IFR conditions, mountain obscurations, moderate turbulence, and moderate icing.
After departing Fort Collins at approximately 10:46, the pilot climbed to 12,000 feet and later 13,000 feet. At 11:15, the pilot reported experiencing mild rime ice at 13,000 feet. Shortly thereafter, while en route near the Laramie VOR, the aircraft's speed decreased and it began to deviate right of course and descend.
Air route controllers issued multiple low-altitude alerts, but the pilot did not initially respond. The pilot eventually communicated, stating, "we got a problem, hold on," and later, "will get back to you in a minute." ADS-B data showed the aircraft entered a continuous, tightening right turn while descending at rates up to 1,825 feet per minute. The last recorded data point showed the aircraft at 9,075 feet MSL, approximately 890 feet north of the accident site. The wreckage was located at 14:25.
The investigation
Post-accident examination of the engine and airframe showed no mechanical malfunctions that would have prevented normal operation. Engine data monitor records indicated that during the descent, the pilot applied increased power.
Weight and balance calculations revealed the aircraft was flying significantly overweight. The total load of 1,212 pounds was approximately 123 pounds over the maximum useful load, and the calculated takeoff weight was approximately 135 pounds above the maximum takeoff weight.
Investigators also noted that a flight instructor had previously observed the aircraft's attitude indicator providing false indications. However, due to a lack of recovered maintenance records, the pre-accident status of the instrument could not be determined.
Findings
- The pilot elected to fly into an area with forecast icing in an aircraft prohibited from flight into known icing conditions.
- The pilot continued the flight after reporting the presence of rime ice.
- The aircraft's descent and tightening right turn were consistent with a stall/spin event.
- The pilot likely experienced spatial disorientation while attempting to recover from the loss of control.
- The aircraft was operated in excess of its maximum takeoff weight and maximum useful load.