Approach Controller failed to utilize correct procedural applications when issuing a Contact Approach to an aircraft experiencing icing conditions and needing a descent below MVA minimums.
Synopsis
Approach Controller failed to utilize correct procedural applications when issuing a Contact Approach to an aircraft experiencing icing conditions and needing a descent below MVA minimums.
Narrative
Aircraft X departed ZZZ Southeast bound. He wanted to stay at 3000 MSL due to the ceiling and possible icing conditions. About 20 miles Southeast of the airport; he reported that he wanted lower but due to the MVA; he could only go to 3000 MSL. He then elected to return to the airport. Once he was within 15 miles of the airport; he was descended to 2600 MSL. The plan was to try to get him to get the Visual Approach but as the aircraft kept flying; it was clear that he was going to have to go out for the ILS. He needed lower than 2600 due to icing so I gave him a 090 degree heading and stated the MVA and told him altitude his discretion. As the aircraft started to descend; I had my hand off call up to the tower to get the lights on high and had another person in the RADAR room get the supervisor. The pilot reported that the visibility was getting better as he got lower and I asked him if he had ground contact. He said yes so I cleared him for a Contact Approach. The Low Altitude Alert went off after I cleared him for the approach so I did not give him the Low Altitude Alert phraseology. The pilot landed without trouble and taxied off the runway. I gave the pilot a Contact Approach without him requesting it. Also; the Low Altitude Alert went off as the aircraft was 6 miles West Northwest of the airport. Since I already stated the MVA; I did not give him the Low Altitude Alert phraseology. I figured the pilot was focusing on flying his plane and I wanted him to get to an altitude that was going to get him out of the icing conditions.
Second reporter narrative
I was working handoff and called local to inform them of the situation and to make sure the approach lights and runway lights were on the highest intensity. Another controller; not working a position; was in the TRACON and we had him notify the FLM. The FLM came out of the office to observe the situation. The pilot descended below the MVA and was able to get ground contact. The Low Altitude alert alarmed and controller didn't issue it as the pilot had ground contact. Controller cleared him for a contact approach and again asked if he needed ground assistance. He still said no assistance was needed and he was switched to tower and landed safely without incident. Review contact approach requirements as pilot didn't specifically request a contact approach.
Source: NASA Aviation Safety Reporting System (public domain). Reports are voluntary submissions and are not verified by NASA.