On September 3, 1989, a Piper PA-22-135 (registration N3724A) was involved in an aviation accident near Booneville, MS. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: LOSS OF ENGINE POWER FOR AN UNKNOWN REASON. TREES IN THE EMERGENCY LANDING AREA WERE A FACTOR. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
Shortly after takeoff, the engine RPM dropped from 2400 to 2100. The pilot, unable to maintain altitude, turned left to clear trees and attempted a field landing but collided with trees. Examination found no preimpact part failure or malfunction. Carb heat was not applied, but reported temperature and dew point were not conducive to carburetor ice.
Accident Description
Shortly after takeoff, the pilot observed that the engine RPM had dropped from 2400 to 2100. Unable to maintain altitude, the pilot initiated a left turn to clear nearby trees. While attempting to land in a field, the aircraft collided with trees and crashed.
Post-Accident Examination
A post-accident examination of the aircraft and engine revealed no preimpact part failure or malfunction. The pilot did not apply carburetor heat after the loss of power. However, the pilot estimated the ambient temperature and dew point were 80°F and 30°F, respectively, which would not have been conducive to the formation of carburetor ice.