A BN2T-4S Islander (G-CGTC) suffered a double engine failure, likely due to intake icing, while operating in instrument meteorological conditions (IMC) at approximately 7,000 ft amsl. After an initial glide descent both engines were successfully restarted and the aircraft made a powered landing at Eglinton.
It is likely the engine anti-icing system was not selected on before entry into cloud with an outside air temperature less than 5°C. A build-up of ice in the engine ducts probably caused the engine symptoms noted by the pilot and the subsequent rollbacks and flameouts.
The investigation found that the pilot’s limited recent experience in icing conditions was likely to have been a contributory factor, and that circumstances causing stress and fatigue could have affected his performance. Both engines were relit during the descent and a safe landing was made at Eglinton, although the airport was closed.
The operator has taken safety action related to winter operations, use of anti-icing systems and pilot wellbeing.
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