Pilot Debrief

CESSNA 340A near Madison, WI — 2010-12-21

Final reportCEN11CA128
Sign in to save
Date
2010-12-21
Location
Madison, WI, USA
Airport
MSN
Aircraft
CESSNA 340A
Registration
N233DS
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed during the approach, which resulted in an aerodynamic stall. Contributing to the accident was the pilot's failure to check the de-ice fluid level prior to takeoff, which resulted in the failure of the de-ice system to clear the windshield of ice.

NTSB narrative

According to the pilot, he attempted two landings at the original destination airport; however, due to the weather, the pilot elected to return to the departure airport. While on the instrument approach to the runway, the windshield became covered with ice and the de-ice system could not de-ice the windshield. The pilot then attempted the landing by looking out the left window. At 15 feet above the runway, the pilot noticed the airspeed was approximately 85 knots and the airplane stalled. The pilot added engine power; however, the airplane experienced a hard landing on the runway. Examination of the airplane revealed the forward fuselage was buckled and the de-ice fluid tank was empty. No mechanical anomalies were noted with the airplane. The pilot stated that he did not check the fluid level in the de-ice tank during the preflight inspection.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • 1 docket document
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents1

Related mishaps