On November 25, 1988, a Bellanca 7ECA (registration N8572V) operated by County Aviation was involved in an aviation accident near Erwinna, PA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: OFF AIRPORT LANDING IN UNSUITABLE TERRAIN DUE TO A POWER LOSS CAUSED BY CARBURETOR ICING. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During a practice forced landing, power did not respond on go-around. The CFI took control and executed a forced landing into trees. Post-crash examination revealed water droplets on the carburetor and water on the lower cowling.
Incident Summary
A flight instructor (CFI) and a private pilot under instruction were practicing forced landing procedures. When the pilot attempted to apply power for a go-around, there was no response from the engine. The CFI assumed control of the aircraft and guided it to a forced landing, which resulted in the aircraft coming to rest in a tree line.
Post-Crash Examination
Following the accident, an examination of the aircraft disclosed that the carburetor and carburetor heat box were covered with water droplets. Additionally, water was found on the lower cowling of the engine compartment.