Flight and Diversion
A cargo flight operating at night from Des Moines, Iowa, to Chicago, Illinois, encountered engine problems while en route. The pilot decided to divert to Muscatine, Iowa, for an emergency landing. Due to low visibility, the pilot was unable to locate the runway and completed three low passes before initiating an approach to runway 12.
Approach and Crash
On final approach, the aircraft struck the ground and crashed approximately 1,245 feet short of the runway. The aircraft was destroyed in the impact, and the pilot was killed.
Investigation Findings
The official probable cause was determined to be engine failure in flight. The investigation reported the following contributing factors:
- Improper operation of the powerplant and powerplant controls
- Improper operation or failure to use anti-icing and deicing equipment
- Carburetor icing
- Failure to maintain flying speed
- Conditions conducive to carburetor or induction system icing
- Icing conditions including sleet and freezing rain
- Partial loss of power on both engines
- The airport manager reported hearing the aircraft make three low passes, as if attempting an NDB approach to runway 05.