On June 7, 1988, a Piper PA-25-235 (registration N8678L) operated by Saffer Spray Service, Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Limon, CO. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed to prevent carburetor icing, resulting in an engine failure and subsequent forced landing. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An agricultural pilot experienced an engine failure during his third flight of the day, resulting in a forced landing where the aircraft nosed over. No injuries were reported.
What happened
The pilot was conducting agricultural operations when he reported that the engine quit during his third swath run of the day. He attempted to execute a forced landing but the aircraft nosed over upon impact.
The investigation
An FAA airworthiness inspector examined the wreckage and found no evidence of a pre-impact mechanical failure. The pilot stated he had 15 gallons of fuel on board at takeoff and had been airborne for approximately 15 minutes.
Findings
The weather conditions were conducive to carburetor icing, which likely contributed to the engine failure. The aircraft sustained substantial damage during the nose-over.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain adequate airspeed to prevent carburetor icing, resulting in an engine failure and subsequent forced landing.