On June 26, 1993, a Cessna 172C (registration N1441Y) operated by Wanders, William W. JR was involved in an aviation accident near West Chicago, IL. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: the pilot's improper use of carburetor heat. Conditions conducive to the formation of carburetor ice was a factor. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
After leveling off from a cruise descent, the engine RPM dropped and power was lost. Restart attempts failed; the pilot performed a forced landing in an open field, and the airplane came to rest nose down. Postaccident examination revealed no preimpact mechanical difficulty.
Accident Occurrence
Shortly after leveling off from a cruise descent, the pilot reported a drop in engine RPM, followed by a total loss of engine power. Attempts to restart the engine were unsuccessful. The pilot conducted a forced landing in an open field, where the airplane came to rest in a nose-down attitude. The pilot was returning the airplane to the home base airport after the completion of an annual inspection.
Postaccident Examination
A postaccident examination and engine teardown found no evidence of preimpact mechanical difficulty. The cause of the power loss remains undetermined.
Weather Conditions
A nearby weather observation indicated a temperature of 80 degrees Fahrenheit with a dew point of 61 degrees Fahrenheit.
What happened in the 26 Jun 1993 Cessna 172C accident near West Chicago, IL?
After leveling off from a cruise descent, the engine RPM dropped and power was lost. Restart attempts failed; the pilot performed a forced landing in an open field, and the airplane came to rest nose down. Postaccident examination revealed no preimpact mechanical difficulty.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 26 Jun 1993 involved a Cessna 172C, registration N1441Y, operated by Wanders, William W. JR, at West Chicago, IL.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
the pilot's improper use of carburetor heat. Conditions conducive to the formation of carburetor ice was a factor.
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