Casualties unknown

Engine Power Loss During Descent Leads to Off-Airport Landing in Trees (N8653Y)

Hope, AK, US

On December 25, 1982, a Piper PA-18-150 (registration N8653Y) operated by Ward Hulbert was involved in an aviation accident near Hope, AK. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Debris in the carburetor plugged internal passages, simulating carburetor ice. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 1 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

During descent, an aircraft experienced engine power loss after the pilot turned on carburetor heat. The pilot landed uphill in trees. Investigation found debris plugging carburetor passages, simulating carburetor ice.

Incident Overview

An aircraft experienced a loss of engine power during descent and subsequently crashed into trees. The pilot reported that the weather conditions were visual meteorological conditions (VMC) and that no flight plan had been filed for the flight.

Pilot Statement

According to the pilot, the descent was being conducted with reduced power. When he activated the carburetor heat, the engine began to miss. In response, he turned the carburetor heat off. At that point, the aircraft's altitude was low. The pilot then turned the aircraft and performed an uphill landing.

Investigation Findings

Post-accident examination of the powerplant revealed a single discrepancy: debris was found inside the carburetor. This debris had plugged the internal passages, which created conditions mimicking carburetor ice. No other issues were identified with the engine or related systems.

Outcome

The aircraft came to rest in trees following the forced landing. The specific type of aircraft, registration markings, number of occupants, and extent of injuries or damage were not disclosed in the investigation source.

Probable cause

Debris in the carburetor plugged internal passages, simulating carburetor ice.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20020917X04246. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.