Casualties unknown

Pilot Reports Engine Failure During Forced Landing Practice in Snow-Covered Field (N6878B)

Likely, CA, US

On November 27, 1985, a Piper PA-18A-150 (registration N6878B) was involved in an aviation accident near Likely, CA. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

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

During power-off forced landing practice in a snow-covered field, the pilot applied throttle to abort but the engine sputtered and quit. The aircraft landed and flipped over. The pilot suspected carburetor ice.

Incident Overview

A pilot reported an engine failure while practicing power-off forced landings in an open, snow-covered field. According to the pilot, he applied the throttle to abort the approach, but the engine "sputtered then quit." The aircraft subsequently landed in the snow-covered field and flipped over.

Pilot Statement

The pilot stated that he believed the cause was carburetor ice. He described the sequence of events as occurring during a routine practice maneuver.

Weather Conditions

The closest official weather reporting station, located 4 nautical miles north of the accident site, was reporting a temperature of 37°F and a dew point of 32°F at the time of the incident.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X38271. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.