On March 29, 1994, a Cessna 170 (registration N2509V) was involved in an aviation accident near Olive Branch, MS. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: FAILURE OF THE PILOT-IN-COMMAND TO APPLY CARBURETOR HEAT BEFORE REDUCING ENGINE POWER TO DESCEND RESULTING IN THE PARTIAL LOSS OF ENGINE POWER DUE TO CARBURETOR ICE. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During descent the pilot reduced throttle without applying carburetor heat. After landing in a field, the airplane struck trees and a fence. FAA examination revealed water in fuel system and icing conditions were favorable.
Sequence of Events
The pilot reduced the throttle during a descent but did not apply carburetor heat. After the descent, when the pilot applied throttle input, the engine did not respond. The airplane subsequently touched down in a field, where it collided with trees and a fence.
Examination Findings
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) examined the airplane and reported that the right wing fuel tank and the engine strainer contained a small quantity of water. The left wing fuel tank was damaged due to impact.
Environmental Conditions
According to an icing probability chart, conditions at the time were favorable for visible icing at rated power with a float-type carburetor installed.
What happened in the 29 Mar 1994 Cessna 170 accident near Olive Branch, MS?
During descent the pilot reduced throttle without applying carburetor heat. After landing in a field, the airplane struck trees and a fence. FAA examination revealed water in fuel system and icing conditions were favorable.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 29 Mar 1994 involved a Cessna 170, registration N2509V, at Olive Branch, MS.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
FAILURE OF THE PILOT-IN-COMMAND TO APPLY CARBURETOR HEAT BEFORE REDUCING ENGINE POWER TO DESCEND RESULTING IN THE PARTIAL LOSS OF ENGINE POWER DUE TO CARBURETOR ICE. CONTRIBUTING TO THE ACCIDENT WAS THE UNSUITABLE TERRAIN ENCOUNTERED DURING THE FORCED LANDING AND THE CARBURETOR ICING WEATHER CONDITIONS.
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