What happened
The pilot was conducting a low pass over a strip that was not certified for regular air traffic operations. During the maneuver, an attempt was made to execute a go-around. However, the engine failed to respond as expected. Consequently, the pilot proceeded with a landing on a wet sod airstrip. The aircraft ran off the end of the runway and nosed over.
The investigation
Following the accident, the pilot stated that carburetor heat had not been used during the last 10 minutes of flight. To determine if mechanical failure was involved, the engine was tested by the FAA after the incident. The test results indicated that the engine operated normally.
Findings
The primary factor contributing to the accident was the lack of carburetor heat usage during the critical phase of flight. This omission likely led to carburetor icing, which caused the engine power loss. The pilot's decision to perform a low pass over an uncertified strip added complexity to the situation, but the mechanical failure was directly linked to environmental conditions and procedure.
Safety message
Pilots must ensure that carburetor heat is applied as required by the aircraft operating manual, particularly during low-power settings or in humid conditions. Failure to use carburetor heat can result in sudden engine power loss.