On February 8, 1992, a Beech 95 (registration N986T) operated by Glatzer Industries Inc. was involved in an aviation accident near Caldonia, NY. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S IMPROPER USE OF CARBURETOR HEAT WHICH RESULTED IN A LOSS OF ENGINE POWER. A FACTOR RELATING TO THE ACCIDENT WAS WEATHER CONDUCIVE TO CARBURETOR ICING. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
Pilot executed ILS approach without glideslope, then radar vectored for DME approach. After removing carburetor heat at 3,000 ft, engines surged, leading to forced gear-up landing.
Approach and Flight
The pilot conducted an ILS approach after being unable to obtain a glideslope indication. Subsequently, air traffic control provided radar vectors for a DME approach. During the procedure, the pilot climbed to 3,000 feet and removed carburetor heat.
Engine Issues
While heading outbound for the new approach, the engines began to surge. The pilot was unable to maintain altitude. Full carburetor heat was applied to both engines, but the surging and loss of power persisted.
Landing
A gear-up forced landing was performed. The reported temperature and dew point at the time were 26°F and 23°F, respectively.