On September 29, 1989, a Beech B23 (registration N2333L) operated by Dare East Air was involved in an aviation accident near Hatteras, NC. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: LOSS OF ENGINE POWER FOR AN UNKNOWN REASON. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot reported engine problems en route to Ocracoke, NC. After gradual RPM reduction, carburetor heat further decreased RPM. The aircraft struck bushes during forced landing. Wreckage examination found no system issue.
Incident Details
A pilot en route to Ocracoke, North Carolina, reported experiencing engine problems. According to the pilot, the engine RPM gradually decreased until it stabilized at 1500 RPM. During the emergency, the pilot applied carburetor heat, which further reduced the RPM. The ambient temperature and dew point were 79°F and 63°F, respectively. The source noted that these conditions were conducive for the formation of induction icing.
Forced Landing
The aircraft was damaged when it struck bushes during a forced landing. No further details about the landing site or subsequent events were provided.
Wreckage Examination
A subsequent examination of the wreckage failed to indicate any type of system problem. The pilot reported that he had drained water from the fuel system during the pre-flight inspection of the airplane.