Pilot Debrief

PIPER J3C-65 near Sandwich, IL — 2010-05-15

Final reportCEN10CA252
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Date
2010-05-15
Location
Sandwich, IL, USA
Aircraft
PIPER J3C-65
Registration
N22394
Category
Airplane
Highest injury
None
Fatalities
0

Probable cause

The pilot's delay in using carburetor heat resulting in a partial loss of engine power due to carburetor icing.

NTSB narrative

Approximately 15 minutes after takeoff while maneuvering approximately 100 feet above ground level, the airplane's engine lost partial power or "bogged down." The pilot said that he applied power; however, the engine did not respond. He scanned the engine gauges and no anomalies were noted. He said that he then applied carburetor heat; however, he did not have much time as he was about to land. He elected to perform a forced landing to a wet/muddy field. During the landing, the airplane impacted the terrain and nosed over. Examination of the engine revealed no evidence of preimpact failure or malfunction. The temperature and dew point at the time of the accident were conducive to serious icing at cruise power.

NTSB coding

Evidence available

  • 2 docket documents
View NTSB final reportView NTSB docket

Docket documents2

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