Overview
The pilot-in-command (PIC) departed Texas en route to Bolivar, Missouri, with a scheduled fuel stop in Pine Bluff, Arkansas. Two revenue passengers were aboard. The PIC stated that the passengers would attempt to locate the destination airport by visually identifying the city lights.
Navigation and Descent
According to the PIC, they wandered to several different areas while searching for the correct lights. Fuel was low, and the PIC decided to land at an airport that had been spotted earlier. During the circling descent over that airport, the engine quit, necessitating an off-airport forced landing.
Post-Crash Inspection
No mechanical problem was discovered during the post-crash inspection. The fuel supply was determined to be sufficient to provide power to the engine.
Carburetor Icing Conditions
Carburetor icing conditions were prevalent at the time. The PIC did not use carburetor heat during the power-off descent.