Engine fire and icing lead to runway excursion

No fatalities • Wheeling-Ohio County, United States of America • Landing (descent or approach)

An aircraft experienced an engine fire during a missed approach in night IMC conditions, eventually resulting in a runway excursion during a subsequent landing attempt.

What happened

During a night flight in instrument meteorological conditions (IMC), the crew encountered an engine fire while performing a missed approach. In response to the fire, the crew feathered the propeller and shut down the affected engine. The flight continued toward an alternative airport; however, during the landing attempt, the aircraft touched down short of the runway. The plane proceeded onto the runway before veering off the left side.

Findings

Investigation into the incident revealed that the pilot was unable to sustain altitude because of ice accumulation on the airframe and the loss of power resulting from the engine shutdown. Although the pilot had been informed of moderate and isolated severe icing conditions prior to the flight, the aircraft was operated at 114 knots during the approach. This speed was significantly below the 140-knot minimum recommended by the aircraft flight manual for icing conditions, a threshold intended to prevent ice buildup on unprotected wing areas. Post-accident examination of the wreckage showed that both engines and propellers had sustained rotational damage, indicating they were functioning at the time of impact. Additionally, neither propeller was found in the feathered position during the inspection.

Probable cause

The accumulation of ice on the wings due to operating below the recommended minimum speed in icing conditions, combined with reduced power from an engine shutdown.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1997-11-13 Beechcraft 90 King Air accident near Wheeling-Ohio County, United States of America?

An aircraft experienced an engine fire during a missed approach in night IMC conditions, eventually resulting in a runway excursion during a subsequent landing attempt.

Were there any fatalities in the 1997-11-13 Beechcraft 90 King Air accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1997-11-13 involved a Beechcraft 90 King Air, registration N80GP, operated by Skyward Aviation - USA, at Wheeling-Ohio County, United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The accumulation of ice on the wings due to operating below the recommended minimum speed in icing conditions, combined with reduced power from an engine shutdown.

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