Incident Overview
A certified flight instructor (CFI) conducting an instructional night cross-country training flight encountered a loss of engine RPM shortly after takeoff. The CFI initiated a 180-degree turn to return to the departure airport, but the engine then experienced a complete power failure. An emergency landing was made on a freshly plowed field, and the aircraft nosed over during the landing.
Post-Flight Examination
A post-flight examination of the aircraft revealed no mechanical failures or issues with the fuel supply. According to the pilot, at the time of the incident, nothing could be done to prevent the power failure.
Environmental Conditions
Weather conditions at the time were conducive for carburetor icing, as indicated by icing probability charts. The presence of carburetor icing is a known phenomenon that can affect engine performance, particularly in certain temperature and humidity ranges.
Pilot Actions
The CFI reported that following the initial loss of engine RPM, he attempted to return to the departure airport. Despite his efforts, the engine subsequently lost all power, necessitating the forced landing. The pilot stated that no corrective actions were available to avert the power loss.
The aircraft sustained damage during the nose-over, but no further details about the extent of damage or occupant status were provided in the investigation source.