Accident Summary
A twin-engine aircraft was descending to Williamstown when it encountered adverse weather conditions, including low ceiling, snow, and icing. At an altitude of 8,000 feet, the left engine failed. The pilot continued the approach on the remaining engine but was eventually forced to execute a go-around maneuver. While in the traffic pattern circling, the airplane lost control, stalled, and crashed a few miles from the airfield. The aircraft was destroyed, and all four occupants were killed.
Event Details
The flight was descending toward Williamstown when the pilot faced poor weather with low ceilings, snowfall, and icing conditions. At 8,000 feet, the left engine failed, prompting the pilot to continue the approach on one engine. Unable to complete the landing, the pilot initiated a go-around. During the subsequent circling in the traffic pattern, the airplane went out of control, stalled, and impacted terrain several miles from the airfield. The aircraft was destroyed, and all four individuals on board were killed.
Probable Cause
The official probable cause of the accident was determined to be engine failure on approach. Contributing factors reported included improper operation of the powerplant, improper operation or failure to use anti-icing/de-icing equipment, carburetor ice, improper in-flight decisions, failure to maintain flying speed, conditions conducive to carburetor/induction system icing, low ceiling and snow, lack of familiarity with the aircraft, and reported ram ice at 8,000 feet.