Accident Summary
An aircraft experienced a partial loss of power while in flight and subsequently collided with terrain during an emergency landing in a sugar cane field. The flight instructor (CFI) indicated that, during the maneuver, he was reasonably sure he cleared the engine at least once a few minutes after starting the maneuver. He stated, "I don't know exactly when I cleared, or how many times, but I'm sure I did it at least once."
Engine Examination
An examination of the engine revealed no evidence of an engine malfunction or failure.
Weather Conditions
The reported weather included rain showers of unknown intensity east through southeast, temperature 78 degrees Fahrenheit, and dew point 68 degrees Fahrenheit. According to the FAA carburetor icing probability chart, the pilot was operating in carburetor icing conditions at glide power.