1979-03-14: Piper PA-61 Aerostar (Ted Smith 601) (N8061J) — Commonwealth National Bank — Columbus-Ohio State University-Don Scott, United States of America
Columbus-Ohio State University-Don Scott, United States of AmericaLanding (descent or approach)
On March 14, 1979, a Piper PA-61 Aerostar (Ted Smith 601) (registration N8061J) operated by Commonwealth National Bank was involved in an aviation accident near Columbus-Ohio State University-Don Scott, United States of America during landing or approach. 3 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Stall on final approach due to improper in-flight decisions. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).
On final approach in clouds, a twin-engine airplane stalled and crashed in flames near Columbus-Ohio State University Airport, killing all three occupants. Icing conditions were forecasted.
Accident Overview
During final approach to Columbus-Ohio State University Airport, a twin-engine airplane encountered cloud conditions. The aircraft stalled and subsequently crashed in flames. All three occupants were killed. Icing conditions had been forecasted for the area.
Investigation Findings
The official investigation identified the probable cause as a stall on final approach resulting from improper in-flight decisions. Contributing factors included the accumulation of airframe ice, the presence of icing conditions such as sleet and freezing rain, and the issuance of SIGMETs and AIRMETs warning of icing conditions in clouds above the freezing level. Additionally, the aircraft was not certified for flight in known icing conditions.