May 31, 2000
Accident
Destroyed MONARCH, MT
Injuries3 fatal
Phase of Flight-
ConditionsUnk
OperationFAR 091
Probable Cause
The failure of the pilot-in-command to ensure adequate airspeed for flight during a forced descent due to airframe icing, resulting in a stall. Factors included: freezing rain conditions, airframe icing, an improper decision by the pilot-in-command to turn toward mountainous terrain (where a turn toward lower and level terrain was a viable option), mountainous terrain, and insufficient altitude available for stall recovery.
NTSB SEA00FA095