What happened
During the final approach phase, the flight crew discussed the use of wing anti-ice systems. The first officer inquired about activating the boots to de-ice the wings, but the captain declined, stating the intention to use the system only while on the ground. As the aircraft crossed the threshold, the first officer reduced engine power, which led to a significant increase in the descent rate. The captain noted a sink rate of 900 fpm.
In an attempt to stabilize the descent, the first officer applied back pressure to the control yoke. This input was insufficient to stop the rapid descent. As further back pressure was applied, the stall warning horn activated, though the captain indicated he had control of the aircraft. The subsequent hard landing caused the right main landing gear to fail, leading to a rupture in the fuel tank and upward bending of the right wing rear spar.
Findings
An inspection conducted approximately 18 hours after the event revealed the presence of 3/16 inch of rime and clear ice on the leading edges of the wings, as well as the horizontal and vertical stabilizers. This ice featured vertical, finger-like protrusions. Investigations noted that the operator's line operations manual lacked specific guidance regarding landing techniques or flight characteristics when encountering wing ice. Additionally, it was determined that neither pilot had completed the company's most recent crew resource management training.