Incident Overview
A pilot reported experiencing a power loss during a flight conducted in mountainous terrain. The pilot cited carburetor ice as the cause of the power loss. Carburetor heat was not reported in use at the time of the incident.
Environmental Conditions
The pilot noted the presence of fog patches in the area. The calculated temperature at the flight altitude of 9,000 feet MSL was 62 degrees Fahrenheit, while the pilot estimated the temperature to be 50 degrees Fahrenheit. The closest reported dew point was 57 degrees Fahrenheit. Conditions conducive to carburetor ice existed based on these values.
Carburetor Icing Factors
The calculated density altitude at the time was 11,000 feet. The aircraft's certified service ceiling was 18,500 feet. The combination of temperature, dew point, and altitude created conditions favorable for carburetor icing, as reported by the pilot.