Incident
On approach to Weyers Cave-Shenandoah Valley Airport, the crew informed air traffic control that both engines had failed and that they were unable to maintain the prescribed altitude. Shortly thereafter, the aircraft struck a hill located a few miles from the airfield, likely as the crew attempted an emergency landing. The aircraft was destroyed upon impact, and both pilots were killed.
Probable Cause and Contributing Factors
The official investigation determined the probable cause of the accident to be a double engine failure on final approach due to icing conditions. Contributing factors included improper operation of the powerplant by the pilot-in-command, improper operation or failure to use anti-icing and deicing equipment, the presence of carburetor ice, conditions conducive to carburetor or induction system icing, complete failure of both engines, icing conditions, and both propellers found in the feathered position after impact.