Overview
An aircraft experienced an engine power loss during takeoff at approximately 250 feet above ground level. At that time, the aircraft was about halfway down the 4,200-foot runway. The pilot applied carburetor heat and lowered full flaps with the intention of landing on the remaining runway.
Event Sequence
As the aircraft touched down on the packed, snow-covered runway, the engine regained power. The pilot reported that insufficient runway remained to stop the aircraft without striking a hard-packed, 10-foot snowbank. Consequently, he elected to perform a go-around. During the climb-out, the engine lost power again, and the pilot was unable to return to the runway. The aircraft subsequently crash landed in a snow-covered clearing near a dump on wooded, hilly terrain.
Investigation Findings
An investigation revealed no pre-crash discrepancies, except that the annual inspection was overdue. The engine ran satisfactorily during an operational check. The carburetor was disassembled and checked for contamination, and a very small piece of ice was found. It was noted that water may have entered due to melting snow in the impact area.