On May 31, 1993, a Grumman AA5B (registration N74092) was involved in an aviation accident near Cummings, GA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE LOSS OF ENGINE POWER RESULTING FROM THE FORMATION OF CARBURETOR ICE DURING THE GROUND OPERATION. A FACTOR WAS THE PILOT'S FAILURE TO OBTAIN A WEATHER BRIEFING. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot aborted a takeoff from a private sod airstrip after a gradual loss of engine power. The aircraft rolled off the departure end of Runway 29. Investigation found no mechanical malfunction but noted conditions favorable for carburetor ice.
Event Details
The pilot completed a preflight inspection and runup before attempting the takeoff from a 1500-foot-long private sod airstrip. No aircraft problems were noted during the preflight, and all systems, including the carburetor heat, operated normally during the subsequent runup procedure. According to the pilot, he experienced a gradual loss of engine power during the initial takeoff attempt. Realizing that a safe climb was not possible, the pilot aborted the takeoff attempt after the airplane climbed a few feet. The airplane settled back onto the runway and rolled off the departure end of Runway 29.
Investigation Findings
Examination of the wreckage failed to disclose a system malfunction or component failure. Examination of weather data revealed that conditions were favorable for the formation of carburetor ice. The pilot did not receive a weather briefing before the takeoff attempt.