Incident Details
While in flight at 11,500 feet, the pilot began a descent. As the aircraft reached 2,500 feet, the engine began sputtering and then lost power. The pilot subsequently approached to land in an open field. During the landing, the aircraft collided with a wire fence.
Investigation Findings
The pilot reported that he turned on the carburetor heat during the descent. However, the carburetor heat control was found in the off position and the carburetor heat door was closed. No preexisting malfunctions or failures were discovered. The temperature and dew point were 38°F and 34°F, respectively. According to icing probability curves, the aircraft would have been operating in a serious carburetor icing range during the descent.