What happened
While performing an approach to the Weyers Cave-Shenandoah Valley Airport, the flight crew notified air traffic control that both engines had ceased functioning. During this period of power loss, the pilot reported an inability to sustain the required altitude.
As the crew attempted to execute an emergency landing, the aircraft collided with a hill situated several miles from the airport. The impact resulted in the total destruction of the aircraft and caused two fatalities, as both pilots were killed in the accident.
Findings
The investigation determined that the primary cause of the crash was a double engine failure occurring during the final approach phase, driven by icing conditions. Several contributing elements were identified regarding the mechanical and operational state of the aircraft:
- The presence of ice within the carburetor or induction system.
- Atmospheric conditions that were highly conducive to induction system icing.
- Failure to properly utilize anti-icing or de-icing equipment.
- Improper operation of the powerplant by the pilot-in-command.
- Both propellers were observed in the feathered position following the impact.