Sequence of Events
While en route, the pilot encountered icing conditions and reported he was unable to maintain altitude and was having engine problems. He diverted toward Allentown, Pennsylvania. Shortly after, he advised that he had lost power in the left engine. Approach control began issuing vectors for a VOR approach, but the pilot stated he was unable to open his approach plates and requested a surveillance radar approach. Radar vectors and advisories were provided until the pilot reported he had the airport in sight.
Several witnesses observed that the left propeller was feathered as the aircraft approached the airport. The pilot maneuvered the aircraft to a left downwind for runway 24 at about 400 feet above ground level with the landing gear extended. Witnesses reported that the aircraft's nose pitched up, then down, then the aircraft rolled to the left and crashed. The aircraft struck a mobile home and a propane tank in a trailer court and burned. A person in the mobile home was fatally injured.
Investigation
Examination of the wreckage revealed that the left propeller blades were at the low pitch stops. No preimpact failures were found.
Probable Cause
The official probable cause findings include four occurrences:
- Occurrence #1: In-flight encounter with weather. Findings: (1) Weather condition – carburetor icing conditions. (2) Planning/decision – improper – pilot in command.
- Occurrence #2: Loss of engine power (total) – nonmechanical. Findings: (3) Delayed – pilot in command. (4) Fuel system, ram air/induction air – ice. (5) Fuel system, ram air/induction air – blocked (total).
- Occurrence #3: Loss of control – in flight. Findings: (6) Precautionary landing – initiated – pilot in command. (7) Airspeed (Vmc) – not maintained – pilot in command.
- Occurrence #4: In-flight collision with terrain/water. Findings: (8) Emergency procedure – attempted – pilot in command.