Event Details
During a normal cruise configuration, the pilot reported that the engine misfired. In response, the pilot applied carburetor heat, after which the engine performed normally. However, upon removing the carburetor heat, the engine lost substantial power within approximately two to three minutes. Reapplying carburetor heat resulted in a power gain, but the engine did not return to normal specifications.
Emergency Landing
Faced with reduced power, the pilot decided to make an emergency landing on the only available space. The pilot reduced the engine power to idle, applied full flaps, and attempted to land on a field. Although the pilot felt the engine had cleared enough to possibly continue the flight, the decision was made to proceed with the landing. The aircraft touched down on the field, ran onto an adjacent road, and struck a telephone pole with its right wing.
Meteorological Conditions
At the time of the incident, the temperature was 26 degrees Fahrenheit, and the dewpoint was 3 degrees Fahrenheit. According to the Carburetor Icing Probability Charts, these conditions were conducive to the formation of carburetor ice.