PIPER J3C-65
Sandwich, IL — May 15, 2010
Event Information
| Date | May 15, 2010 |
| Event Type | ACC |
| NTSB Number | CEN10CA252 |
| Event ID | 20100517X13634 |
| Location | Sandwich, IL |
| Country | USA |
| Coordinates | 41.63833, -88.64445 |
| Highest Injury | NONE |
Aircraft
| Make | PIPER |
| Model | J3C-65 |
| Category | AIR |
| FAR Part | 091 |
| Aircraft Damage | SUBS |
Conditions
| Light Condition | DAYL |
| Weather | VMC |
Injuries
| Fatal | 0 |
| Serious | 0 |
| Minor | 0 |
| None | 2 |
| Total Injured | 0 |
Event Location
Probable Cause
The pilot's delay in using carburetor heat resulting in a partial loss of engine power due to carburetor icing.
Full Narrative
Approximately 15 minutes after takeoff while maneuvering approximately 100 feet above ground level, the engine lost partial power or "bogged down." The pilot applied throttle; however, the engine did not respond. He scanned the engine gauges and no anomalies were noted. The pilot then applied carburetor heat; however, "did not have much time as we were about to land..." The pilot 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. Examination of the airplane revealed the vertical stabilizer and rudder were bent.
About This NTSB Record
This aviation event was investigated by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). NTSB investigates all U.S. civil aviation accidents to determine probable cause and issue safety recommendations to prevent future accidents.