What happened
Following a stop at Watertown to manage cargo operations, the pilot departed the airfield without exiting the cockpit. During the initial climb, observers noted the aircraft flying at approximately 50 feet above ground level, exhibiting significant buffeting and bouncing motions. At the time of the incident, weather conditions were reported as overcast with light snowfall. The flight path subsequently declined, leading to a high-impact collision with the terrain that resulted in an explosion.
Findings
Post-accident investigations focused on the condition of the airframe and environmental factors. Inspectors discovered a ridge of rime ice, measuring between 0.5 and 0.75 inches in thickness, along the leading edge of the left horizontal stabilizer. Additionally, arc-shaped ice fragments were identified along the debris trail. A mechanical inspection of the engine and the structural integrity of the airframe showed no evidence of malfunctions or failures that would have rendered the aircraft unairworthy prior to the impact. The investigation concluded that the failure to conduct a preflight inspection and remove accumulated ice was the primary factor, exacerbated by the icing conditions present during the flight.