Aircraft: Cessna Caravan Injuries: 1 Minor. Location: Kwigillingok, Alaska. Aircraft damage: Substantial.
What reportedly happened: The pilot reported that he was flying in visual meteorological conditions for most of the flight.
As he approached the airport, he inadvertently entered an area of instrument meteorological conditions that resulted in a buildup of ice on the airframe and windscreen.
He attempted to make a 180° turn to get out of the conditions but was unable to maintain sufficient airspeed. The airplane stalled and crashed.
Probable cause: The pilot’s decision to continue visual flight into instrument meteorological conditions with moderate icing, which resulted in structural icing and an aerodynamic stall.
NTSB Identification: ANC12CA016
This December 2011 accident report is provided by the National Transportation Safety Board. Published as an educational tool, it is intended to help pilots learn from the misfortunes of others.
The weather outside was marginal,
Fit neither for pilot nor mice,
He flew on through the clouds so frightful,
And encountered the dreaded ice.
The 180 would not even save him,
As his talent was not up to par,
His butt now was out on a limb,
Could have saved it by driving his car.