What happened
While performing a return flight to Keflavik following equipment deliveries at Höfn-Hornafjörður Airport, the crew encountered significant icing conditions along Iceland's southern coast. As the accumulation of ice prevented the pilot from sustaining the required altitude, an emergency descent was initiated.
The aircraft performed a belly landing on the snow and icy terrain of Sólheimasandur, an uninhabited region. Although the impact occurred in a remote area, all seven occupants were successfully rescued without reported injuries. The aircraft sustained damage that rendered it beyond repair, and it was subsequently left at the crash site.
Findings
- The primary factor contributing to the loss of altitude and subsequent emergency landing was the presence of severe icing during the flight phase.