What happened
During an RNAV approach, a Cessna Citation crashed into an open field located approximately 3,000 feet south of the final approach fix. Prior to the impact, the pilot was operating in instrument meteorological conditions (IMC) and was unable to see the runway. The last communication with air traffic control confirmed the aircraft was two miles south of the final approach fix.
An eyewitness observed the aircraft flying at a low altitude beneath the cloud base, traveling in a southeasterly direction. The observer noted that the right wing was positioned lower than the left wing and that the aircraft exhibited a wing-rocking motion. Shortly after these observations, the aircraft's nose pitched down toward the terrain. The witness reported that the engine appeared to be operating at a steady rate throughout the descent. The aircraft was destroyed upon impact, which was followed by a post-crash fire.
Findings
- Weather reports from the area indicated the presence of icing conditions.
- A separate Cessna Citation operating the same approach twenty minutes earlier had reported encountering light to moderate rime ice.
- Icing conditions were present in the vicinity of the accident site.