On June 5, 1994, a Piper PA-38 (registration N9271T) was involved in an aviation accident near Sweet Home, OR. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The pilot's failure to apply carburetor heat to check for ice accumulation while flying in conditions where carburetor icing could be expected, which resulted in engine power loss and a subsequent forced landing. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot experienced engine power loss due to carburetor icing during cruise flight and executed a forced landing in uneven terrain, resulting in landing gear collapse.
What happened
The aircraft was operating under weather conditions conducive to carburetor icing at both glide and cruise power settings. The pilot did not apply carburetor heat to inspect for ice accumulation within the carburetor throat. Consequently, the engine lost power due to carburetor icing. The pilot initiated a forced landing in a nearby field. During the landing roll across rough and uneven terrain, the landing gear collapsed.
Findings
The investigation highlighted that the failure to monitor for ice accumulation during known icing conditions was the primary factor. The mechanical outcome was the loss of engine power followed by structural damage to the landing gear upon impact with the ground.
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to apply carburetor heat to check for ice accumulation while flying in conditions where carburetor icing could be expected, which resulted in engine power loss and a subsequent forced landing.
What happened in the 5 Jun 1994 Piper PA-38 accident near Sweet Home, OR?
A pilot experienced engine power loss due to carburetor icing during cruise flight and executed a forced landing in uneven terrain, resulting in landing gear collapse.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 5 Jun 1994 involved a Piper PA-38, registration N9271T, at Sweet Home, OR.
What was the probable cause of the accident?
The pilot's failure to apply carburetor heat to check for ice accumulation while flying in conditions where carburetor icing could be expected, which resulted in engine power loss and a subsequent forced landing.
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