What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1992-02-23 involved a Cessna 305A, registration N234BD, operated by Paul Santopietro, at Plymouth, MA.

Engine Quits During Turn After Takeoff; Forced Landing in Trees (N234BD)

On February 23, 1992, a Cessna 305A (registration N234BD) operated by Paul Santopietro was involved in an aviation accident near Plymouth, MA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE FAILURE OF THE PILOT TO USE CARBURETOR HEAT WHICH RESULTED IN THE FORMATION OF CARBURETOR ICE AND A SUBSEQUENT LOSS OF ENGINE POWER AND FORCED LANDING IN TREES. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 1781061362Data API Editorial standards

Following takeoff, the engine failed during a turn. The pilot conducted a forced landing in trees. Carburetor heat was not used due to the pressure type carburetor. Post-incident engine examination revealed no discrepancies, but conditions were conducive to carburetor icing.

Incident Details

According to the pilot, the engine quit during a turn shortly after takeoff. The pilot then executed a forced landing, which resulted in the aircraft landing in trees. No further details about the aircraft or occupants were provided.

Pilot Statement

The pilot stated that carburetor heat was not applied before takeoff. He indicated that the engine has a pressure type carburetor, which he believed would not be susceptible to carburetor ice formation. This belief led him to forgo the use of carburetor heat.

Engine Examination

A post-incident examination of the engine was conducted. The examination revealed no discrepancies or mechanical issues with the engine. The engine was found to be in working order with no identifiable problems.

Meteorological Conditions

At the time of the incident, the temperature was 42 degrees Fahrenheit and the dew point was 41 degrees Fahrenheit. According to the FAA's chart 'Conditions Favoring the Formation of Carburetor Ice', these conditions are indicative of a high likelihood of carburetor icing in a pressure type carburetor. The chart is used to assess the risk of carburetor ice formation based on temperature and dew point.

Engine failure Icing

1992-02-23: Cessna 305A (N234BD) — Paul Santopietro — Plymouth, MA