Accident Description
The airplane descended from cruise altitude to a pattern altitude of approximately 1000 feet above ground level (AGL). During the descent, the pilot did not apply carburetor heat. When the pilot subsequently increased power to maintain pattern altitude, the engine experienced a total loss of power. The pilot then intentionally landed the airplane in unsuitable terrain.
Post-Accident Findings
Following the accident, the engine was run on a test stand and no discrepancies were identified. The engine operated normally under test conditions.
Environmental Conditions
At the time of the accident, the outside air temperature (OAT) was 42 degrees Fahrenheit and the dew point was 26 degrees Fahrenheit. According to the probability of carburetor icing chart, these temperature and humidity conditions are conducive to serious icing during glide operations.