Casualties unknown

Pilot Makes Forced Landing After Engine Power Loss During Snow Shower Avoidance (N5639P)

Cheyenne, WY, US

On February 10, 1994, a Piper PA-24 (registration N5639P) operated by Jackson, Myron K. was involved in an aviation accident near Cheyenne, WY. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: THE PILOT'S IMPROPER USE OF THE CARBURETOR HEAT. A FACTOR TO THE ACCIDENT WAS CARBURETOR ICING CONDITIONS. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive; 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

During cruise, a pilot diverted to avoid snow showers and descended. After noticing a drop in EGT, carb heat was applied, but the engine lost power. A forced landing was made with the landing gear retracted. Carburetor icing conditions were present.

Incident Details

While cruising, the pilot altered course to steer clear of snow showers. However, staying clear of the showers at the current altitude proved impossible, prompting the pilot to initiate a descent.

Sequence of Events

During the descent, the pilot observed a drop in exhaust gas temperature (EGT) and subsequently applied carburetor heat. Shortly after, the engine lost power. The pilot was unable to restore full engine power, and a forced landing was executed with the landing gear retracted.

Carburetor Icing

The carburetor icing probability chart for the conditions indicated a risk of icing at both glide and cruise power settings.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001206X00817. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.