Incident Overview
A pilot was conducting practice maneuvers at an altitude of 1,200 feet above ground level (AGL) when the engine began to run roughly. In response, the pilot applied carburetor heat, which resulted in a significant reduction in engine power. After turning off the carburetor heat, a total loss of power occurred at approximately 800 feet AGL.
Sequence of Events
With the engine powerless, the pilot initiated an emergency descent. During the descent, the aircraft collided with a power line at an altitude of roughly 30 feet AGL. The impact caused the nose of the aircraft to drop and the aircraft to yaw to the left. The aircraft then slid approximately 40 to 50 feet on the ground upon landing. The landing gear nose strut was severed, and the right wing structure was bent.
Investigation Findings
An investigation into the incident found no evidence of any mechanical failure or malfunction within the aircraft's systems. However, a carburetor icing probability chart indicated that serious icing conditions existed at the time of the flight. The precise cause of the power loss was not stated in the investigation findings.