Flight and Collision
According to the unrated pilot, he was on the downwind leg for landing when he applied carburetor heat. Subsequently, the engine RPM began to decrease. He pushed the throttle forward but received no response from the engine. The aircraft continued to lose altitude and struck power lines. After the collision, the aircraft crashed to the ground in an inverted attitude.
Pilot Qualifications
The pilot had previously obtained a student pilot certificate, but his medical certificate had expired. The passenger, who was a rated pilot, stated that he was not aware the pilot was not rated.
Passenger Account
The passenger reported that he observed no malfunction of the power plant operation but stated that the approach was flown too low to clear the power lines.
Toxicology
A toxicological examination revealed that the pilot had a blood alcohol level of 0.147%.