On June 16, 1991, a Cessna 120 (registration N9008X) operated by Fairchild, Timothy J. was involved in an aviation accident near Spirit Lake, IA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Engine failure due to carburetor icing. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
Shortly after takeoff, the aircraft engine sputtered and lost power, leading to an emergency landing attempt that resulted in a nose-over. Post-accident inspection found no mechanical failure, with carburetor icing identified as a likely factor.
What happened
The pilot reported that shortly after takeoff, the engine began to sputter and lose power before quitting entirely. An emergency landing was attempted which resulted in a nose-over.
The investigation
Post accident inspection found no mechanical failure or malfunction.
Findings
Meteorological conditions were conducive for carburetor icing at the time.