Event Summary
A student pilot executed a descent of 1000 feet and performed a practice flare over snow-covered terrain. When the throttle was opened to recover from the flare, the engine sputtered instead of delivering full power.
Engine Performance
The instructor reported that carburetor heat was not used during the descent, though the mixture had been leaned. Additionally, neither the student nor the instructor performed a 'clearing of the engine' during the descent. The instructor surmised that the engine had 'loaded up'—a condition where unburned fuel accumulates, likely due to the lack of carburetor heat and failure to clear the engine with a periodic power increase.
Landing Gear
Following the engine sputter, the aircraft contacted the snow-covered surface. The deep snow caused the nose gear to collapse during the landing.
No further details about the aircraft or occupants were provided in the investigation source.