Incident Summary
An instrument flight instructor (CFII) and an instrument-rated private pilot were conducting a dual-purpose flight combining an instrument competency check with a business trip. During the flight, the pilots observed evidence of carburetor ice and elected to use carburetor heat throughout the descent to their destination. As they initiated a missed approach procedure, the airplane engine began to lose power. The pilots maneuvered for an emergency landing, and soon after the engine lost power completely. The CFII took control of the airplane and maneuvered to avoid a treeline during the landing. Subsequently, the airplane struck the ground in a snow-covered field while in a right-wing-low attitude.
Pilot Actions
The pilots reported that they noted signs of carburetor ice during the flight. In response, they engaged carburetor heat for the remainder of the descent. When the engine power loss occurred during the missed approach, the CFII assumed control and directed the airplane toward an open area. The landing was completed in a field, but the airplane impacted the ground with a right-wing-low attitude.
Environmental Conditions
The flight was conducted in conditions of snow. The nearest weather reporting station, located 23 miles south at Zanesville, Ohio, reported a temperature of 19°F and a dew point of 14°F. According to icing probability charts, these conditions were marginally conducive (borderline) for carburetor ice formation.
Postaccident Examination
A postaccident engine examination and a subsequent test run revealed no evidence of a preimpact mechanical malfunction. The engine was determined to be operational prior to the event.